A rich tradition? Brazil has topped their group in 12 consecutive World Cups! An omen for victory, potentially facing Japan again.

In the decisive Group C match on June 25th Beijing time, Brazil beat Scotland 3-0, clinching the group's top spot and qualifying for the knockout rounds. This extends Brazil's streak of finishing first in their World Cup group to 12 consecutive tournaments.

In the first match, Brazil faced strong opposition, settling for a 1-1 draw against Morocco and missing out on a winning start. However, in the following two games, the team maintained steady performances, defeating Haiti and Scotland by identical 3-0 scores. They ultimately edged out Morocco to claim the group's top spot.

By securing the top position in Group C this time, Brazil has now finished first in the initial group stage of the World Cup 17 times in history—at least four more than any other team (Germany has 13). Since 1982, Brazil has topped their group in 12 straight World Cups, a record unmatched in international football.

Notably, Brazil's five previous World Cup titles were all achieved when they advanced from the group stage as the top team. This year, they have already maintained that characteristic precursor to winning the championship.

After securing first place in Group C, Brazil will face the second-place team from Group F in the first knockout round (Round of 16). That opponent could well be Asia's top team, Japan.

In a friendly match on October 14 of last year, Brazil took a 2-0 lead but surprisingly conceded three goals in a dramatic collapse against Japan, suffering their first-ever defeat to the Asian side. Whether Brazil can seek revenge on the World Cup stage remains a compelling storyline.