Japan: Japan defeated fellow World Cup qualifiers Ghana 2-0 in a home friendly match to build momentum with just over half a year remaining before the next year's tournament. Takumi Minamino and Ritsu Doan were the goal scorers, netting either side of half-time in Toyota, which gave Japan another victory following their first win against Brazil in a friendly last month.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, this match marked Ghana's first game since they secured their World Cup spot in the United States, Canada, and Mexico with a 1-0 win over Comoros last month. During the match, Ghana's midfielder Abu Francis was carried off on a stretcher early in the second half due to a serious ankle injury.
In a previous encounter, Japan emerged victorious against Brazil with a scoreline of 3-2 in Tokyo. Despite missing Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma due to injury, Japan showcased an impressive performance. Liverpool's Wataru Endo made his return to the squad but had to settle for a place on the bench after missing the Brazil game because of injury.
Goalkeeper Tomoki Hayakawa was in action, replacing Zion Suzuki, who sustained a fractured wrist and finger while playing for Parma. Japan opened the scoring in the 16th minute when Kaishu Sano found Minamino unmarked in the box, allowing the Monaco attacker to take a touch before sliding the ball into the net.
Ghana's first opportunity arose when Brandon Thomas-Asante, who has scored 10 goals for Coventry in the English Championship this season, shot wide of the post. Francis's injury occurred while attempting a tackle on Japan's Ao Tanaka, and Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo also departed the field early in the second half.
Ritsu Doan extended Japan's lead just before the hour mark, receiving the ball wide in the box and cutting inside to deliver a left-footed finish. Looking ahead, Japan will continue their World Cup preparations with a friendly against Bolivia in Tokyo on Tuesday, while Ghana is set to face South Korea in Seoul.