Japan secured a 2–0 victory over fellow World Cup qualifiers Ghana in a home friendly match on Friday. The win, achieved in Toyota, maintains Japan’s momentum with the global tournament less than a year away.
Takumi Minamino and Ritsu Doan scored one goal in each half, delivering another win for Japan after they recently defeated Brazil for the first time in a friendly encounter last month.
Match Highlights and Injuries
The game was Ghana’s first since they successfully secured their place at the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico with a 1–0 victory over Comoros last month.
Japan’s opening goal came in the 16th minute. Kaishu Sano found Minamino unmarked in the penalty box. The attacker for Monaco took a controlling touch before calmly sliding the ball into the net.
Ghana generated their first real opportunity when Brandon Thomas-Asante, who plays for Coventry in the English Championship, shot wide of the post.
The match was marred by injury concerns for Ghana. Midfielder Abu Francis was carried off the field on a stretcher early in the second half.
He sustained what appeared to be a serious ankle injury while attempting a tackle on Japan’s Ao Tanaka. Forward Antoine Semenyo also left the game early in the second half.
Japan doubled its lead just before the hour mark. Doan received the ball wide in the penalty box. The attacker cut inside before forcefully striking a left-foot finish into the net.
Squad Notes and Future Plans
Japan again looked strong despite being without winger Kaoru Mitoma due to injury. Goalkeeper Tomoki Hayakawa started in place of Zion Suzuki, who fractured a wrist and finger playing for Parma. Midfielder Wataru Endo returned to the squad after missing the Brazil game with an injury but was held on the bench.
Japan will continue its World Cup preparations with another friendly against Bolivia in Tokyo on Tuesday. Ghana is scheduled to play South Korea in Seoul.
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