List of lineups (No. 4231) announced by veteran soccer commentator Yutaka Donzawa:
Goalkeeper: Daniel Schmidt
Defenders: Yuta Nakayama, Hwang Itakura, Akigo Taniguchi, Hiroki Sakai
Back: Hidemasa Morita, Bea Tanaka
Midfielders: Kubo Kenyoung, Minamino Takumi, Ito Junya
Striker: Daizan Maeda
In his analysis, Yutaka Tangzawa emphasized that Japan's attacking power is in dire need of improvement, with only five goals scored in six matches, which is clearly not enough. Given the advantage of playing at home and the team's strategy of striving for three points, the lineup returns to the classic 4231 formation.
Daizan Maeda, a rising star who recently joined Celtic, will be starting as a single-arrow forward. Known for his speed, his ability to create a lot of pressure on opposing defenses, and his keen sense of goal, he will undoubtedly create a strong chemistry when paired with Junya Ito, who is good at breaking through. Takumi Minamino is deployed closer to the center of the penalty area, closer to the goal, which makes the most of his ability to capitalize on chances. The all-rounded Kubo Kenyoung is deployed on the left side of the pitch, where he can work with players in the center of the pitch and also break through to the end line to complete crosses.
In midfield, the combination of Hidemasa Morita and Bea Tanaka is designed to deal with the possibility of Koh Endo's unavailability, while at center back, Hwang Itakura and Akigo Taniguchi have been chosen for their tacit understanding as teammates during their time at Kawasaki.
