Japan topped the Group E table with 6 points, delivering defeats to two giants, namely Spain and Germany. Confidence is on level infinity, with an equivalent ability to turn the tides in their favor.
Croatia has yet to lose a match in the FIFA World Cup 2022, but it has only one victory to its name, despite finishing the second spot in Group F. Croatia netted the ball four times against a single for Canada. Now it is the only remarkable note for the side in Qatar.
| Teams | |
| Japan | Croatia |
| Location | |
| Al Janoub Stadium, Qatar | |
| Date and Time | |
| December 5, 2022 8:30 pm IST | |
| Rankings | |
| 24 | 12 |
Spain appeared to be leading the charge with the 11th-minute goal scored by Morata. For the rest of the first half, Moriyasu’s team took its time defending. Japan demonstrated its class in the second half, scoring two goals in four minutes. Doan opened the attack in the 48th minute to make way for Tanaka’s score in the 51st minute.
Tanaka could remain a strong midfielder for Japan as Maeda teams up with Kubo and Kamada to kick some serious football.
At this point in the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, Croatia has only allowed a single goal to be scored against them, which demonstrates that having a strong defense is important in order to have a drawn result. The addition of one point indeed came in handy as the runners-up of the 2018 edition are able to play their event in the Round of 16. Fans who are betting on FIFA will have high expectations for the Croatian team.
Dalic’s side may look to replicate the 4-3-3 formation against Spain. It served them well, as they won 4-1 over the North American country.
Predictions for Japan vs. Croatia see one goal each until full time, with the possibility of Croatia claiming the win with a penalty later.
