Japan have the opportunity to take a major step toward the World Cup knockout rounds when they face Tunisia in a crucial Group F showdown.
The stakes could hardly be higher. Japan are aiming to build on their impressive comeback draw against the Netherlands, while Tunisia arrive desperate for a response after a humiliating opening defeat that plunged their campaign into crisis.
The Eagles of Carthage were dismantled 5-1 by Sweden in their first group match, a result so damaging that it led to the dismissal of head coach Sabri Lamouchi. Former African Cup of Nations-winning manager Herve Renard has been brought in to steady the ship, but he faces an immediate test against one of Asia’s strongest sides.
For Tunisia, anything less than victory could leave their hopes of reaching the World Cup knockout stages hanging by a thread.
Japan, meanwhile, showed impressive character in their opening fixture. Twice falling behind against the Netherlands, Hajime Moriyasu’s side refused to give up and earned a valuable point thanks to Daichi Kamada’s dramatic late equaliser.
With a difficult clash against Sweden still to come, the Samurai Blue know three points here would put them in a commanding position to reach the last 32.
Why Japan Look Well Placed
Japan’s World Cup experience could prove decisive in this encounter. The tournament in North America marks their eighth consecutive appearance on football’s biggest stage, highlighting the consistency they have achieved over the past three decades.
Although Japan have reached the Round of 16 four times, they are still searching for a historic breakthrough into the quarter-finals. To keep that dream alive, matches like this are ones they simply cannot afford to slip up in.
History also favours the Asian nation. Since 2000, Japan have won three of their four meetings with Tunisia, including a victory at the 2002 World Cup.
While they were not at their fluent best against the Dutch, Japan displayed resilience, determination and attacking quality when it mattered most. Against a Tunisia side struggling for confidence and defensive stability, they should create plenty of opportunities.
Goals Could Be on the Menu
Group F delivered goals in abundance during the opening round, and there is every reason to expect another entertaining contest.
Tunisia’s defensive problems are impossible to ignore. The North Africans have conceded 10 goals across their last two matches, exposing weaknesses that Japan’s attack will be eager to exploit.
Japan have also shown vulnerability at the back. Their opening match against the Netherlands ended a run of five consecutive clean sheets, with the Dutch finding space and chances throughout the contest.
That combination of Japan’s attacking threat and Tunisia’s defensive concerns points strongly towards a game featuring multiple goals.
Player to Watch: Ayase Ueda
Much of Japan’s attacking hopes will rest on the shoulders of Ayase Ueda.
The striker was relatively quiet against the Netherlands, but he remains one of the most dangerous forwards in the tournament. Ueda arrives at the World Cup full of confidence after a prolific season with Feyenoord, where he scored 26 goals in 40 appearances.
His international record is equally impressive, having already found the net against elite nations including Germany and Brazil.
Against a Tunisian defence that looked overwhelmed by Sweden’s movement and pace, Ueda should enjoy far more opportunities to make an impact.
Discipline Could Be a Factor
Tunisia full-back Ali Abdi endured a difficult evening in the defeat to Sweden and may once again find himself under pressure.
The defender committed three fouls in the opening match as he struggled to cope with Sweden’s attacking threats. Japan’s quick movement and technical quality could force him into further challenges, making another foul a realistic expectation.
Best Bets
Japan to Win
The Samurai Blue possess greater momentum, stronger recent form and a far more settled squad. Tunisia’s managerial change and defensive problems make Japan worthy favourites.
Over 2.5 Goals
With Tunisia leaking goals and Japan carrying plenty of attacking talent, this fixture has the ingredients for an entertaining, high-scoring encounter.
Bet Builder
- Ayase Ueda to score anytime
- Both teams to score
- Ali Abdi to commit 1+ foul
Key Stats
- Japan are unbeaten in three of their last four meetings with Tunisia.
- Tunisia have won only three of their 19 World Cup matches.
- Japan have scored in six of their last seven international fixtures.
- Tunisia managed just two shots on target during their 5-1 defeat to Sweden.
- Ayase Ueda has scored 16 international goals for Japan.
- Japan won 2-0 in the nations’ only previous World Cup meeting.
Prediction
Tunisia may show greater fight under their new manager, but Japan possess more quality, better structure and greater confidence. Expect the Samurai Blue to control large periods of the game and move a step closer to the knockout stages.
Predicted Score: Tunisia 1-3 Japan