Japan expect tough Indonesia test with World Cup spot in reach

Samurai Blue in Jakarta for penultimate qualifier

Japan will face Indonesia on Thursday in their penultimate 2022 World Cup qualifier knowing that a draw will be enough to guarantee their place in Qatar.

Hajime Moriyasu's side are top of Group B with 21 points from eight matches, three points ahead of second-placed Australia, who have a game in hand.

A win for Japan in Jakarta would also mathematically eliminate third-placed Saudi Arabia, who have 18 points from nine matches.

Indonesia out of contention

Indonesia are bottom of the group with no points from eight matches and have already been eliminated from contention for a place in the World Cup.

However, Shin Tae-yong's side will be looking to give their home fans something to cheer about after a disappointing qualifying campaign.

The match will be played at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta and will kick off at 7.30pm local time.

What the coaches said

Moriyasu said: "We are very close to achieving our goal of qualifying for the World Cup.

"We know that Indonesia will be a tough opponent, but we are confident that we can get the result we need.

Shin said: "We know that Japan are a very strong team, but we will be playing for our pride.

"We want to give our fans something to cheer about and we will be doing everything we can to win the match."