- Fixture: Japan vs Indonesia
- Date: Tuesday, 10 June 2025
- Venue: Panasonic Stadium Suita, Suita, Osaka, Japan
Match Preview
Japan and Indonesia meet in the final match of the AFC third-round qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While both teams have already secured their respective fates—Japan topping Group C and Indonesia clinching a place in the fourth round—this encounter remains a matter of pride, momentum, and a chance for squad rotation and tactical experimentation.
Japan, the “Samurai Blue,” have been imperious throughout qualifying, breezing through the earlier rounds and becoming the first Asian nation to book their ticket to the World Cup. Their campaign has been marked by clinical efficiency: six wins from six in the second round, with 24 goals scored and none conceded, followed by a dominant run in the third round. However, their last outing saw them fall 1-0 to Australia, a rare defeat that ended a long unbeaten streak and exposed some vulnerabilities when fielding an experimental lineup. Coach Hajime Moriyasu has used these final qualifiers to test new players and combinations, with several European-based stars rested or rotated out.
Indonesia, under new coach Patrick Kluivert, have shown remarkable resilience and tactical discipline. The “Garuda Squad” secured back-to-back 1-0 wins over Bahrain and China to punch their ticket to the next round, a historic achievement for a side that has never reached the World Cup finals. Their most recent win over China, courtesy of an Ole Romeny penalty, was a gritty display, and the team has been buoyed by the return of key players Maarten Paes and Marselino Ferdinan, both of whom missed the last match due to suspension. Kluivert has also integrated several Liga 1 domestic talents, giving the squad a fresh look and added depth.
The last meeting between these two sides, in November 2024, ended in a comprehensive 4-0 win for Japan in Jakarta, with the Samurai Blue dominating possession and chances. Historically, Japan have had the upper hand, winning the majority of encounters, and Indonesia’s last victory over Japan came more than four decades ago. The gulf in class and squad depth remains significant, but Indonesia’s recent form and defensive organization suggest they won’t be easy to break down.
Team News and Key Players
Japan:
The hosts will be without several regulars, including Kaoru Mitoma, Ao Tanaka, Ko Itakura, Ayase Ueda, and Hidemasa Morita, who were left out as Moriyasu experiments with his squad. Expect Liverpool’s Wataru Endo to anchor the midfield, with creative spark provided by Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo and Daichi Kamada. Young talents like Yu Hirakawa and Kota Tawaratsumida could also feature, while Shuto Machino and Keito Nakamura are options up front.
Indonesia:
Indonesia are missing striker Septian Bagaskara and midfielder Eliano Reijnders due to injury, with defenders Sandy Walsh and Jordi Amat doubtful. However, the return of goalkeeper Maarten Paes and forward Marselino Ferdinan is a boost. Captain Jay Idzes will marshal the defense, while Ole Romeny—scorer of the decisive penalty against China—will be relied upon for attacking impetus. Kluivert’s tactical flexibility and the blend of diaspora and domestic players are key strengths.
Recent Form
| Team | Last 5 Matches (Qualifiers) |
|---|---|
| Japan | L 0-1 vs Australia, D 0-0 vs Saudi Arabia, W 2-0 vs Bahrain, W 3-1 vs China, W 4-0 vs Indonesia |
| Indonesia | W 1-0 vs China, W 1-0 vs Bahrain, L 1-5 vs Australia, W 2-0 vs Saudi Arabia, L 0-4 vs Japan |
Prediction
Japan, even with a rotated squad, possess superior depth, technical ability, and home advantage. Indonesia will be organized and motivated, but the gap in quality is likely to show, especially if Japan field several of their European-based stars. Expect Indonesia to defend deep and look for counter-attacking opportunities, but Japan’s pressing and creativity should eventually break through.
Predicted Score: Japan 3-0 Indonesia
Key Players to Watch
- Japan: Takefusa Kubo, Daichi Kamada, Wataru Endo, Keito Nakamura
- Indonesia: Maarten Paes, Jay Idzes, Marselino Ferdinan, Ole Romeny
Betting Markets & Odds
| Market | Selection | Fractional Odds | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full Time Result | Japan | 1/5 | Bet Now |
| Handicap (-2) | Japan -2 | 20/21 | Bet Now |
| Both Teams to Score | No | 4/7 | Bet Now |
| Over 2.5 Goals | Yes | 4/7 | Bet Now |
| Correct Score | Japan 3-0 | 6/1 | Bet Now |
| Anytime Goalscorer | Takefusa Kubo | 6/5 | Bet Now |
| Anytime Goalscorer | Marselino Ferdinan (Indonesia) | 6/1 | Bet Now |
Odds are approximate and may vary by bookmaker.
Expect a lively atmosphere in Suita as Japan look to close out qualifying with a statement win, while Indonesia aim to build confidence ahead of the next round. The hosts’ quality should shine through, but the visitors’ recent progress and spirit under Kluivert will make them no pushovers.
