Japan Aims for Top Spot vs. Tunisia

Japan aims to secure the top position in Group F when they face Tunisia late Saturday night. The recent appointment of Hervé Renard as Tunisia's manager offers minimal preparation time for this crucial encounter. Predictions indicate that Japan will not provide an easy welcome for the new coaching staff.

Tunisia's struggles in creating chances in the final third make this a dangerous matchup. Japan's compact 3-4-3 formation is difficult to penetrate, especially for a team that failed to generate clear opportunities against Sweden. Historically, Japan has demonstrated a strong defensive capability, holding opponents to low expected goals (xG) and relying on counter-attacks.

The match is also anticipated to feature over 2.5 goals, given Tunisia's defensive frailties and history of conceding multiple goals against attacking sides. Japan, while not prolific scorers, may be motivated to improve their goal difference in a competitive group. Tunisia's need for a win could also lead to more attacking play, increasing the likelihood of conceding goals on the break.

Koki Ogawa is a likely starter for Japan, especially with Takefusa Kubo's injury. Ogawa has proven to be a threat in the air, scoring crucial goals and consistently attempting headers. Given Japan's reliance on crosses from open play and set pieces, Ogawa's aerial prowess makes him a key offensive option. The projected lineups show Japan in a 3-4-3 formation and Tunisia in a 4-3-3 setup.