Facing what many regarded as the strongest side in the group, Japan lined up in a 3-4-2-1 formation. SUZUKI Zion (Parma Calcio 1913) started in goal behind a back three of WATANABE Tsuyoshi (Feyenoord), TANIGUCHI Shogo (Sint-Truidense VV) and ITO Hiroki (Bayern Munich), the same defensive trio that helped secure a memorable 1-0 victory over England in March.
The double pivot was also unchanged, with SANO Kaishu (Mainz 05) and KAMADA Daichi (Crystal Palace) operating in central midfield. DOAN Ritsu (Eintracht Frankfurt) and NAKAMURA Keito (Stade de Reims) were deployed as wing-backs, while KUBO Takefusa (Real Sociedad) and MAEDA Daizen (Celtic FC) supported lone striker UEDA Ayase (Feyenoord). .....
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