Japan vs Bolivia prediction, H2H and probable lineups, November 18, 2025

By Author On Nov 18, 2025

Japan and Bolivia square up this Tuesday in what should be a fun international friendly, with both sides trying to test new ideas before competitive fixtures roll around. Japan want to keep their momentum going, while Bolivia are hoping to sharpen their attack and build some confidence away from home. It might not be a tournament match, but both teams have plenty to prove.

Form Guide

Japan:
Japan have been playing with real swagger lately — quick passes, sharp movement, and lots of confidence in the final third. Their recent games show they’re improving game by game, especially with their pressing and finishing. Even when they’re not at full strength, they still manage to control matches.

Bolivia:
Bolivia, on the other hand, have had mixed results. They’ve shown effort and flashes of good play, but consistency has been a real issue, especially in away games. Their defence can get stretched, and they sometimes struggle to keep possession for long spells. Still, they have attackers who can hurt teams if they get space.

Head-to-Head (H2H)

These two nations don’t meet often, and their past matchups have been pretty low scoring. Japan usually come out on top when they meet, mainly because of their pace and technical advantage. Bolivia have kept things tight before, but results have generally favoured the Samurai Blue.

Team News

Japan:
Japan are expected to rotate a bit but still field a strong, balanced lineup. A few regular starters might be rested, but the squad depth is good enough to keep the quality up. Their young midfielders and wide players should get decent minutes.

Bolivia:
Bolivia travel with most of their key players available. The coach might tweak the formation to better handle Japan’s speed, probably packing the midfield. Their main striker should start, giving them a focal point up front.

Probable Lineups

Japan (4-3-3):
Goalkeeper: Schmidt
Defenders: Tomiyasu, Itakura, Taniguchi, Iwahashi
Midfielders: Ito, Mitoma, Endo
Forwards: Kubo, Ueda, Nakamura

Bolivia (4-4-2):
Goalkeeper: Cordano
Defenders: Fernández, Sagredo, Haquín, Suárez
Midfielders: Ramiro Vaca, Villarroel, Justiniano, Villamil
Forwards: Moreno, Reinoso

(Note: Lineups are projected.)

Players to Watch

Japan:

Takefusa Kubo: Always lively, always dangerous. His link-up play and sharp turns can really break open Bolivia’s back line.
Wataru Endo: The midfield anchor who keeps everything tidy and steady.

Bolivia:

Marcelo Moreno: Their big attacking threat. Give him the slightest chance and he’ll make something happen.
Ramiro Vaca: Creative spark in midfield — if Bolivia build anything, it probably goes through him.

Match Prediction

Japan should have the upper hand in this one. Their speed, organisation, and confidence in possession make them favourites, especially with the match being played in conditions that suit them. Bolivia will fight hard, but unless they stay compact for long stretches, Japan could pull away.

Predicted Score: Japan 2–0 Bolivia.

Betting Tips

Japan to Win – safest pick considering current form
Under 3.5 Goals – these friendlies often stay moderate in scoring
Kubo Anytime Scorer – he’s been in great attacking rhythm

Wrap-Up

Japan go into this friendly as the more polished and confident side, but Bolivia won’t just roll over. Expect a match full of energy, some tactical experimenting, and a couple of standout performances. Should be a fun one to watch — even if it’s just a friendly, both teams will try to make a statement.