Japan continue their FIFA World Cup preparations with a home friendly against Iceland at the Japan National Stadium in Tokyo. The Samurai Blue have been one of the most impressive teams heading into the tournament, while Iceland arrive looking to end a disappointing run after failing to qualify for the World Cup.

Japan have established themselves as one of Asia’s strongest footballing nations and enter this contest full of confidence. Hajime Moriyasu’s men cruised through World Cup qualifying, losing just one of ten matches while conceding only three goals throughout the campaign.

Since qualification was secured, Japan have maintained their momentum with a series of impressive performances. The Samurai Blue have won eight of their last 11 matches and arrive on a five-match winning streak in international friendlies. Victories over elite opponents such as Brazil and England have further underlined their credentials ahead of the World Cup.

Defensively, Japan have been outstanding. They have kept four consecutive clean sheets and continue to show the organization and discipline that has become their trademark under Moriyasu.

Iceland’s preparations paint a very different picture. The Nordic nation failed to qualify for the World Cup after finishing behind France and Ukraine in their qualification group. Manager Arnar Gunnlaugsson has struggled to generate consistency since taking charge, and his side arrive in Tokyo without a victory in their last four matches.

The visitors have also experienced difficulties against stronger opposition in recent years, and facing one of the tournament’s dark horses away from home represents a significant challenge.

Head-to-Head Record

Japan have enjoyed the better of previous meetings between the nations.

Recent Head-to-Head

• Japan have won three of the last four meetings.
• Iceland have won just one of the previous four encounters.
• This will be the first meeting since February 2012.

History suggests Japan hold a clear advantage heading into this friendly.

Key Players to Watch

Japan – Junya Ito

The experienced winger was instrumental during qualification, registering ten assists in just nine appearances. His creativity and pace make him one of Japan’s most dangerous attacking weapons.

Iceland – Ísak Jóhannesson

The midfielder remains Iceland’s biggest attacking threat. Interestingly, all six of his international goals have arrived after half-time, highlighting his ability to influence matches in the later stages.

Team News

Japan will be without Brighton star Kaoru Mitoma due to injury, but Moriyasu still possesses plenty of attacking quality throughout his squad.

Iceland have a concern over experienced defender Sverrir Ingi Ingason, who remains doubtful for the trip to Tokyo.

Hot Stats

• Japan have won five consecutive international friendlies.
• Japan have kept four straight clean sheets.
• Japan conceded only three goals in ten World Cup qualifying matches.
• Iceland are winless in their last four matches.
• Iceland’s last nine games have all produced over 1.5 goals.
• Japan earned the most corners during AFC World Cup qualifying with 108.

Betting Tips & Prediction

Best Bet: Japan to Win

Japan have been one of the most consistent international teams over the last year. Their quality, home advantage, and superior form make them overwhelming favorites.

Alternative Bet: Japan Win to Nil

The Samurai Blue have not conceded in their last four matches, while Iceland have struggled against stronger opposition. Another clean sheet looks highly likely.

Over 1.5 Goals

Iceland’s last nine matches have all produced at least two goals, while Japan possess enough attacking quality to contribute the majority of those goals themselves.

Correct Score Prediction

Japan 2-0 Iceland

Japan’s defensive solidity should once again provide the foundation for victory. Iceland may remain competitive early on, but the hosts possess significantly greater quality and should comfortably secure another World Cup warm-up win.

Final Prediction

Best Bet: Japan to Win

Alternative Bet: Japan Win to Nil

Over 1.5 Goals: Yes

Correct Score: Japan 2-0 Iceland

Japan look well-positioned to continue their excellent run of form and should head into the World Cup on a positive note with another professional victory in Tokyo.