Preview – Group C: Indonesia v Japan

A 1-1 draw with Australia on Matchday Four halted Japan’s three-match winning run and head coach Hajime Moriyasu has warned his players to be wary of Indonesia’s ability to rise to the occasion when playing at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.

“Indonesia are one of those nations that are definitely making great strides and are gaining strength like never before,” said Moriyasu.

“We are prepared for a tough battle, but we want to outdo them. Indonesia also have passionate supporters who will give them a huge boost, so we will be mentally prepared for the possibility of them playing more aggressively.

“This time we have an extra day to prepare for Indonesia, but also one less day for the second match. If we can use the extra day to get the players on the same page on how we want to play as a team, then we will be well prepared for the second match.”

“There is a big difference in temperature and climate between Indonesia, Europe and Japan. We want to make the most of the extra day so that the players can play with more confidence.”

Kyogo Furuhashi, who has been impressing yet again for Scottish side Celtic FC, has been recalled to the squad for the first time since October 2023, while the injured Ayase Ueda misses out.

Indonesia will face their toughest challenge yet but having held Australia to a goalless draw the last time they played in Jakarta, Shin Tae-yong’s side will not be short of confidence heading into Friday’s tie.

The Korean will be looking for his charges to bounce back from defeat to China PR on Matchday Four and has named a familiar looking squad to carry the responsibility of a hopeful nation.

Ragnar Oratmangoen, who plays his club football with FCV Dender in Belgium, is the side’s leading scorer with two goals and the forward will have to put in another star performance if Indonesia are to find a way past a Japanese defence that has only conceded once in four matches.