Japan are heading into the World Cup with plenty of belief after showing steady progress in recent big tournaments. The side has been building nicely and fans back home are expecting them to go far this time around in North America. Their recent friendly results have given everyone a boost and the team looks ready to create some upsets.
Team Form
The Japanese lads have been in cracking form lately with five straight wins in warm up games. They have taken down some big sides including a 3-2 victory over Brazil and a 1-0 win against England which shows they can mix it with the best. On the other side Iceland missed out on qualifying after a late slip in their group and their recent friendlies have been poor with a heavy loss to Mexico and draws against Canada and Haiti.
- Five wins in a row for Japan including results against top teams
- Iceland without a win in their last ten matches with five losses and three draws
- Japan already qualified early and have used the extra time to sharpen their game
Tactical Analysis
Japan like to play quick passing football and press high which could trouble Iceland who have looked shaky at the back in recent outings. The Japanese attack has found good rhythm and they should create plenty of chances at home. Iceland might sit deep and try to hit on the counter but their lack of recent wins makes that a tough ask.
- Japan strengths include pace on the wings and solid midfield control
- Iceland weaknesses show up in defense after heavy defeats and inconsistent results
- Key battles will be in midfield where Japan can dominate possession
Betting Proposal
With Japan in such good shape and Iceland struggling it makes sense to back the hosts to win comfortably. Japan win with handicap -1.5 at odds of 1.85 looks the value play here. The side has the quality to score at least twice and keep a clean sheet against an out of form opponent.
