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Neymar has taken a cheeky dig at German economist Joachim Klement after Brazil’s 2-1 triumph over Japan secured their passage to the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup. Klement’s analytical model had forecasted a shock Japanese victory, but the Brazilian star was quick to remind him of the actual outcome through a playful social media post.

After Brazil sealed their place in the knockout stage, Neymar couldn’t resist mocking Klement’s misplaced prediction. The forward from Santos took to social media shortly after the final whistle, referencing the economist’s earlier claim that Japan would knock out the five-time world champions.

Japan certainly made Carlo Ancelotti’s men work hard for the win in the last-32 clash, threatening to upset the heavy favourites. However, Brazil found a late breakthrough when Rayan pressed high to win the ball, allowing Bruno Guimaraes to set up Gabriel Martinelli, who kept his cool to slot home the decisive goal that sent the Selecao through.

Before the tournament commenced, Klement — a mathematician and economist — had gained widespread attention for his data-driven prediction that Japan would beat Brazil in the knockout phase. His forecasting model had correctly anticipated the winners of the 2014, 2018 and 2022 World Cups, giving his words added credibility.

In an interview with Fortune India before the competition, Klement had stated: “I don’t make predictions about individual group-stage matches, but I do foresee a potential Brazil versus Japan clash in the last 32, with Japan emerging victorious. That does sound strange to me, since Brazil are historically the most successful football nation. However, this current crop of players isn’t at its peak, while Japan are in excellent form.”

Following Brazil’s victory, Neymar responded humorously on X, writing: “Mr. Joachim Klement... please try again at the next World Cup.”

The trolling didn’t stop there. Neymar continued to keep tabs on Klement’s other tournament predictions. When the Netherlands — Klement’s pick to win the 2026 World Cup — were knocked out on penalties by Morocco, Neymar returned online to add further jest, posting: “You messed up again.”

Having advanced to the round of 16, Brazil will now brace for a tougher test, with Ancelotti’s side set to face either Ivory Coast or Norway next. The team will need to tighten their defence, as the lapses seen against Japan could prove costly against stronger opposition.