Japan vs Costa Rica confirmed line-ups for World Cup fixture today
Costa Rica must mount a big response to their seven-goal hammering by Spain, as they look to upset the odds and keep themselves in with a chance of progression at the World Cup 2022.
In their way this time though is Japan, a side which will be full of confidence after they themselves overcame Germany despite falling behind in the first half.
The super subs’ effect to land Japan three points in that opener puts them in with a great chance of reaching the last 16, with a win here putting them in pole position to finish top two.
Costa Rica have only reached the knock-outs once since 1990, but failed to win a single game in Russia 2018 and on the evidence of their first game, face a big task to do so this time.
Here’s everything you need to know ahead of the game.
When is the match?
Japan face Costa Rica on Sunday 27 November, with kick-off at 10am in Doha.
Where can I watch?
This fixture will be broadcast live on ITV 1 and can be streamed on ITV X, the replacement for the ITV Hub.
The Independent will also be covering the match via our live blog.
What is the team news?
Hiroki Sakai is Japan’s big doubt after their opening win against Germany, having come off in the second half. There could be changes in attack given how well the team fared after changes made during that victory. Takumi Minamino and goalscorer Takuma Asano will be hoping to start this time.
Costa Rica have no injury concerns but could make multiple changes given how dismally they performed against Spain.
Confirmed line-ups
Japan XI: Gonda, Yamane, Itakura, Yoshida, Nagatomo, Endo, Morita, Soma, Kamada, Doan, Ueda
Costa Rica XI: Navas, Watson, Duarte, Calvo, Oviedo, Fuller, Borges, Tejeda, Torres, Campbell, Contreras
Odds
Japan 6/13
Draw 18/5
Costa Rica 38/5
Prediction
Costa Rica surely have to offer a response after their dismal opening game but Japan will pick up a second straight win to move a huge step closer to making the round of 16. Japan 2-1 Costa Rica.
