Kubo Takefusa Injury: Why Is He Not Playing Today for Japan vs Brazil?

Japan are taking on Brazil in their latest World Cup 2026 match but will remain without Kubo Takefusa, who continues to recover from a knee injury sustained earlier in the group stage.

The Asian nation will face one of the tournament favorites, hoping to secure a win.

Having put on impressive performances in the tournament, the Samurai Blue will need to rely on their talented squad as head coach Hajime Moriyasu navigates the match without one of his key creative outlets.

Why is Kubo Takefusa Not Playing for Against Brazil?

Kubo remains sidelined following a heavy clash with Dutch defender Denzel Dumfries during Japan's opening 2-2 draw against the Netherlands. The Real Sociedad midfielder was forced off in the 75th minute of that match and was later seen struggling to walk.

An MRI scan confirmed damage to his left knee, which initially ruled him out of the subsequent fixture against Tunisia and has kept him out of training sessions.

While the injury is not considered severe enough to send him home, Real Sociedad's Sports Director, Éric Breto, previously confirmed that the player would need time before making a return.

However, there remains hope that Kubo could feature later in the tournament if Japan progresses. "There is still a possibility of a return during the World Cup," Breto told earlier in a statement. "Kubo has a good chance of playing again during this World Cup. If possible, we hope to see him back on the pitch."

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