AFC Asian Cup 2023: Iraq vs Japan: Predicted lineup, injury news, head-to-head, telecast

Japan will aim to solidify their spot in the AFC Asian Cup 2023 knockouts.

In what promises to be a riveting encounter, Iraq and Japan are gearing up to face each other in a highly anticipated match at the AFC Asian Cup 2023. The clash is set to take place on Thursday, 19 January 2024. Japan will be the dominant side and will look to grab another victory to secure their spot for the next round. Supporters from both nations are expected to turn out in full force, creating an incredible backdrop for what promises to be a memorable encounter.

Kick-Off:

Friday, 19 January 2024 at 11:30 GMT

Location: Education City Stadium (Al Rayyan)

Form

Iraq (in all competitions): W-W-W-L-W

Japan (in all competitions): W-W-W-W-W

Players to Watch

Mohanad Ali (Iraq)

Mohanad Ali stands as one of Iraq’s most seasoned players despite his young age. At just 23, Ali has earned an impressive 41 international caps with the Iraq national team. Having progressed through the youth ranks, he has established himself as a key figure in the senior squad, currently holding the title of the highest goal-scorer with 18 goals to his name.

Ali’s prowess on the field is attributed to his exceptional positioning and accurate shooting, which will help Iraq fight against the powerful Japan side.

Takefusa Kubo (Japan)

After steering Real Sociedad to a remarkable fourth-place finish in the La Liga and securing their qualification for the UEFA Champions League in his debut season, Kubo has continued to exhibit stellar performances for the Spanish club in the current campaign.

He has been instrumental, contributing both goals and assists in the Spanish top flight, showcasing his consistent and impactful presence on the field. He will surely be the player to look out for in the AFC Asian Cup encounter against Iraq.

Match Facts

• When Iraq leads 1:0 at home, they win in 100% of the matches.
• Japan has a winning streak of 10 matches.
• Their last meeting was a draw. (1-1)

Injury and Team News

There is no news of injury in the Iraq squad whereas Japan are still expected to miss the likes of their left winger Karou Mitoma who sustained an injury in December.

Head-to-Head

Total Matches – 12

Iraq wins – 2

Japan wins – 7

Draws – 3

Predicted Lineup

Iraq (4-3-3)

Hachim (GK) Doski, Adnan, Natiq, Ali, Rashid, Bayesh, Al-Ammari, Madjed, Mohanad, Jasim

Japan (4-2-3-1)

Suzuki (GK), Tomiyasu, Machida, Sugawara, Ito, Endo, Morita, Ito, Kubo, Minamino, Hosoya

Match Prediction for Iraq vs Japan

With a 90% likelihood of securing victory, Japan enter this match as the superior and more experienced team who have won their past 11 matches and will surely look to move past Iraq with ease.

Prediction: Iraq 1-3 Japan

Telecast for Iraq vs Japan

India – Sports 18, Jio Cinema

Japan – Dazn

Iraq – Al Rabiaa TV

Qatar, Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Palestine, Syria, Yemen, Oman – BeinSports, Alkass

United Kingdom, Ireland, France, Belgium, Netherlands – Triller TV

Australia – Network 10

For worldwide broadcast information, click here.

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