Japan 1-3 Brazil: 5 Talking Points

#1 Tie against Brazil will be a great opportunity for England to experiment

Japan v Brazil - International Friendly

This was a nigh-perfect Brazil side filled to the brim with vim and vigour. Having recaptured their best form under Tite, the Canaries have been on a roll, and the distinct takeaway from the match in Lille today was perhaps their ability to turn defence into attack in the drop of a hat.

With Marcelo and Danilo flanking the wings, they had the license to push forward and ignite counter-attacks that baffled the Japanese. Every time they made an effort to force Brazil on the back foot, were themselves compelled to track back into their own halves on account of a swift counter.

Now that was one astute tactical display that was executed to perfection, and England, who welcome them to Wembley on Tuesday, must take note of this. Manager Gareth Southgate is out to experiment with his line-up a little in these international friendlies, and no better opportunity to conduct one than against this well-oiled Brazil side.

The Three Lions are packed to the rafters with star names in their ranks too, but somehow, haven't found the right formation. Or maybe, just the right formula to kick them into gear. And that's what Southgate is determined to rectify.

With Brazil having hit the peak, it is upon England to bring forth their strongest selves to the table, and test their mettle ahead of the World Cup.