Japan was on an unbeaten run of eleven-straight games (W10, D1) before finally losing in the 2019 Asian Cup final against the other guest country Qatar (3-1) back in February.
None of Japan’s last four fixtures (W2, D1, L1 – all friendlies) produced over 2.5 goals, and none saw both teams score. Encouragingly for Japan, they have kept a clean sheet in each of their last three outings (W2, D1 – all friendlies). When they win, the ‘Samurai Blue’ also tends to shut out the opposition as nine of their last 12 wins have seen them win ‘to-nil’.
Group A and B just complete in the first round. Group C today just one match. Tomorrow will be a complete first round.
In great attacking form, the Chileans have found the net in each of their last six fixtures (W3, D1, L2). However, they have been struggling at the back recently and have conceded in each of their last five outings. When Chile lose they tend to do so in dramatic fashion, having conceded exactly three goals in each of their last five defeats. [Read more…] about Japan vs Chile copa America 2019