Top-ranked Brazil will battle reigning Asian champion Japan in a pivotal quarterfinal matchup at the FIFA Futsal Women’s World Cup on Tuesday, December 2, at the PhilSports Arena. The 8:30 p.m. fixture promises a high-stakes clash between two of the tournament’s elite sides.

The Brazilians, seeded No. 1 in Group D, aim to continue their dominant run and secure a semifinal berth, extending their campaign after a clean sweep of the group stage.

Japan fights for Asian pride

Japan, ranked fifth in the world, enters the contest determined to uphold Asia’s presence in the 16-nation meet. With the Filipina5, Thailand, and Iran eliminated in the group stage, the Nadeshiko Five carry the region’s hopes in the quarterfinal.

The Japanese squad faces the challenge of top-ranked Brazil but is prepared to push for a place in the semifinals, keeping Asian futsal hopes alive in the tournament backed by the Philippine Sports Commission and Philippine Football Federation.

European showdown and tournament progression

Meanwhile, Europe’s Portugal and Italy meet in the other quarterfinal on Tuesday at 6 p.m. Portugal advanced unbeaten through Group C, while Italy secured their quarterfinal spot with a 3-1 comeback victory over Iran in their final group match.

Tuesday’s winners will move on to the semifinals on Friday, joining the victors of Monday’s quarterfinal clashes: Spain vs. Morocco and Argentina vs. Colombia. The matches promise intense competition as the world’s top women’s futsal teams vie for a place in the title race.