World Cup 2026: Brazil’s Matheus Cunha responds to Kento Shiogai comments

Brazilian forward Matheus Cunha launched a pointed response to Japan’s Kento Shiogai after Brazil’s 2-1 victory, insisting the Japanese player had been “put in his place” following remarks made before the World Cup encounter.

With Brazil already through to the next stage of the tournament, the Manchester United striker used the post-match spotlight to address comments from Shiogai that he believed showed a lack of respect for the five-time world champions.

The exchange came after an emotional moment on the pitch. Moments after the final whistle, Cunha was seen being comforted by Japan midfielder Ao Tanaka in front of television cameras.

However, when he later crossed paths with Shiogai, the Brazilian responded by gesturing towards the five stars on Brazil’s crest, a reminder of the nation’s five World Cup triumphs.

Speaking afterwards in the mixed zone, Cunha explained why he felt compelled to respond to the Japanese forward.

“We have always had immense respect for the Japanese national team. For me, they are one of the best teams in the world; they have made considerable progress. Many people talk about it, my friends have told me.

Unfortunately, this player made these remarks about us and demonstrated a lack of understanding of our national team. It was good to put him in his place, and I hope that next time he will know who he’s dealing with,” he rebuked.

Cunha stressed that his criticism was directed at Shiogai’s remarks rather than Japan as a team, making it clear that he has great admiration for the country’s progress in international football.

The Brazilian forward praised the quality of the Japanese national side and acknowledged the respect they have earned through their performances on the world stage.

However, he insisted that comments questioning Brazil carried extra weight because of the significance of representing one of football’s most successful nations.

He continued:

“We know how historic this jersey is and how hard we fought to wear it. So, to hear someone who isn’t even Brazilian talking about us hurts even more.”

Brazil ultimately secured a 2-1 victory over Japan, and while the result ensured the South American side finished the match on a positive note, Cunha’s post-match reaction became one of the main talking points.

His comments underlined the pride he feels in wearing Brazil’s famous shirt and reflected his belief that the team’s history commands respect.

Although there was a show of sportsmanship immediately after the final whistle, Cunha made it clear that he believed Shiogai’s pre-match remarks crossed a line, prompting the sharp response after Brazil had claimed the win.