International Friendly: Japan Delighted Us All and Can Again

Japan vs Uruguay

After such a big step forward the Japanese national team is looking to a bright future, although their immediate focus is now on this upcoming International Friendly.

That Japan’s winner in a 2-1 success against Spain was one of the most controversial goals in World Cup history.

It remains one of the most amazing evenings of World Cup football I’ve had the privilege to witness.

Indeed, the change in the standings of Group E swung one way then the other on a dramatic night which ended with the Japanese national team topping the pool after defeating the giants of Germany and Spain.

To the naked eye it appeared the ball had gone out of play seconds earlier but the decision was made that the curvature of the ball was hanging over the chalk – merely added to the sense of theatre as the Samurai Blue defied the footballing world.

They went onto face Croatia in the last 16, ultimately losing in a penalty shoot-out, but their place in World Cup folklore had long been assured.

After their high-pressing style undid and unsettled both Germany and Spain, five times World Champions between them, they should have no fear as they prepare to host a Uruguay team which also crashed out of the tournament at the group stage.

Talking Points

This international friendly will see new faces for both nations.

Japan have an inexperienced defence with the likes of Hiroki Ito and Koki Machida set to be included in the starting XI, although there are plenty of familiar names further forward with Wataru Endo, Daichi Kamada, Junya Ito, Takuma Asano, and Daizen Maeda expected all to be in the side.

Takehiro Tomiyasu, Maya Yoshida, Takumi Minamino, Yoshinori Muto, and Yuya Osako are among those absent for various reasons, so there will be opportunities for a number of players to stake a claim should they create International Friendly 2023 highlights for the home faithful.

There is certainly a fresh look about the Uruguay squad too, starting in the dugout.

The South Americans are yet to appoint a permanent replacement for Diego Alonso, who left the managerial position after the World Cup. So Marcelo Broli, who is the current manager of the Uruguay under 20s, is leading the team for their next two matches.

With experienced trio Diego Godin, Luis Suarez, and Edinson Cavani among those not involved, fresh faces are guaranteed with seven uncapped players in the current squad, including 20 year-old forward Matias Arezo and Girona defender Santiago Bueno.

Promising Manchester United youngster Facundo Pellistri is expected to start, while there could be spots for Sebastian Coates and Federico Valverde.

Games like these are certainly the time to experiment and blood new faces and that is exactly what should happen in Tokyo on Friday.

History

These two nations have met six times in total, with all those games coming since the inaugural clash in 1985 in the Kirin Japan Cup which the South Americans won 4-1.

On that occasion, doubles from Carlos Aguilera and Jorge Da Silva did the damage.

All bar one of their meetings have been friendlies, including the most recent in Japan in Saitama in 2018 when the hosts edged home by the odd goal in seven.

Minamino scored twice, including the winner and was joined on the scoresheet by Osako and Ritsu Doan.

Gastón Pereiro, Cavani and Jonathan Rodríguez replied.

Their most recent match was also their first competitive encounter as Japan were invited to participate in the Copa America the following year.

A group match ended 2-2 with Koji Miyoshi’s double being cancelled out by a Suarez penalty and Jose Gimenez.

Overall, Japan have won two of their eight clashes, with two draws and four Uruguay successes.

Betting Tip

On first glance, I must confess to being surprised that Japan were slight favorites for this, although on reflection that was until I remembered the fortunes of both at the World Cup and it soon became abundantly clear.

Uruguay are priced 1X2 @ 2.64 and Asian Handicap 0.00 @ 2.01 with the SBOTOP International Friendly 2023 betting odds.

Japan, meanwhile, are on offer at an attractive 1X2 @ 2.48 and Asian Handicap -0.25 @ 2.28.

If you fancy goals, over 2.50 @ 2.21 may appeal, likewise, 0-1 @ 2.71, 2-3 @ 1.81 and 4-6 @ 4.10.

Another 2-2 draw will payout @ 13.50 with Correct Score, yet my tip is for honours even again.

 

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