Japan will face reigning world champion Brazil, Euro 2004 winner Greece and CONCACAF champion Mexico in Group B at the 2005 Confederations Cup in Germany after the draw was made on Monday.
Zico smiles Monday in Frankfurt during the draw for the 2005 Confederations Cup. Japan will play in the same group as 2002 World Cup champion Brazil.
Germany, which qualified as host, was joined in Group A by African champion Tunisia, Oceania's top team Australia and Copa America runnerup Argentina in the 15-day tournament that organizers will be using as a dress rehearsal for the 2006 World Cup finals.
Japan, which beat host China to retain the Asian Cup in August, will kick off its campaign in the biennial competition assembling the continental champion against Mexico on June 16 in Hannover.