Arthur Elias Announces Brazil Women's Squad for Japan Friendlies
Coach Arthur Elias excludes Marta and injured Kerolin from upcoming international friendly matches.
1Squad Selection Overview
Coach Arthur Elias has called up 26 players for Brazil's final two friendlies of 2026 against Japan. The matches are scheduled for November 29 in Hiroshima and December 5 in Okayama. These fixtures serve as critical preparation for the upcoming 2027 Women's World Cup, which will be hosted in Brazil.
2Absence of Key Players
The squad list notably excludes forwards Kerolin and Marta. Kerolin, currently playing for Barcelona, is sidelined for four weeks due to a muscular injury sustained in the Spanish league. Meanwhile, the veteran Marta was omitted from this specific call-up, though the coaching staff maintains she remains in plans for the World Cup.
3Strategic Evaluation Focus
Elias emphasized that the current selection process is not about defining a fixed starting lineup based on individual names. Instead, the goal is to evaluate various players against high-level opponents. The coach highlighted the strength of the Japanese team, noting that many of their players compete in top-tier English and American leagues.
4Historical Context of Rivalry
The competitive history between Brazil and Japan is remarkably balanced. Across previous encounters, Brazil has secured eight victories, while Japan has won seven times, with three matches ending in draws. This parity makes the upcoming matches in Japan a significant test for the Brazilian squad's tactical development and overall defensive cohesion.
5Marta's Future Outlook
Despite her exclusion, Marta remains a candidate for the 2027 World Cup roster. The six-time FIFA World Player of the Year has seen limited action this year, having been called up only once for friendlies against the United States in June. Her final inclusion depends on her physical condition by May 2027.
62026 Performance Metrics
Brazil's women's team has maintained a strong performance record throughout 2026, playing 12 matches with eight wins, one draw, and three losses. Their most recent outings were against Argentina in October, where they achieved a 3-1 victory in Porto Alegre followed by a 2-2 draw at the Arena Pernambuco near Recife.
7Squad Composition Details
The roster features a mix of domestic and international talent, including goalkeepers like Lorena and Lelê, and defenders such as Tarciane and Lauren. Midfielders include Duda Sampaio and Angelina, while the forward line features players like Bia Zaneratto and Adriana. This diverse group reflects Elias's ongoing effort to test different tactical characteristics.
8Path to World Cup
These friendlies represent the final opportunities for the coaching staff to observe player performance in 2026. By testing the squad against a disciplined Japanese side, Elias aims to refine his strategy before the final roster selection in May. The focus remains on building a competitive team capable of performing on home soil.