🏏 Fri, 15 Nov 2024 21:00 JST
Indonesia
vs
Japan
Positions estimated vs 3-4-2-1 ※ estimated
Substitutes
Substitutes
Match Preview
- Japan have stayed unbeaten with three wins and a draw in the Asian final qualifying round so far, continuing to win comfortably with high-scoring victories over China (7-0) and Bahrain (5-0). For Japan, who lead with 10 points, a win over Indonesia would be a big step towards qualifying for the finals.
- Zion Suzuki has established himself as the first-choice goalkeeper and has kept clean sheets across four matches. With steady shot-stopping that makes use of his impressive 190cm frame and the experience he has gained at Serie A side Parma, attention turns to whether the young keeper can again provide an impenetrable defence against Indonesia.
- In midfield, captain Wataru Endo strikes a balance between attack and defence, controlling the game in a double pivot with Ko Watanabe. Up front, Kaoru Mitoma and Ritsu Doan attack from the flanks, and a key point is how the attack, centred on Koki Ogawa, breaks down Indonesia's defence.
- Indonesia field many players of Dutch descent, with defenders such as Dijks (formerly of Fiorentina) and Verdonk (of Lille), who have gained experience in Ligue 1, forming the backbone of the defence. In midfield, Eredivisie-experienced players such as Tom Haye and Pelupessy will look to stop Japan's attack.
- Japan have talents such as Takefusa Kubo, Junya Ito and Daizen Maeda in reserve, overwhelming the opponent with squad depth. Kubo in particular, though starting on the bench, is expected to make a difference as a substitute.
- The away fixture at Jakarta's Gelora Bung Karno Stadium is known for its passionate supporters, and the hot, humid Southeast Asian conditions are also a challenge for Japan. Indonesia will look to make use of home advantage to spring an upset.