Japan U23 vs Mali U23 Prediction: Japan U23 are expected to emerge victorious with a 2-1 scoreline against Mali U23, leveraging their attacking prowess and recent form to overcome Mali’s resilient defense.
The Matmut Atlantique stadium in Bordeaux, France is set to host an intriguing Olympic men’s football clash between Japan U23 and Mali U23 on July 27, 2024. This Group D encounter promises to be a crucial fixture for both sides as they aim to secure a spot in the knockout stages.
Match Details
| Match | Japan U23 National Football Team vs Mali U23 National Football Team |
| Competition | Olympics 2024 |
| Date | July 27, 2024 |
| Time | 19:00 UTC |
| Venue | Stade Matmut-Atlantique (Bordeaux) |
Match Preview
Japan U23 enter this match brimming with confidence after their emphatic 5-0 victory over Paraguay in their opening fixture. The Samurai Blue showcased their attacking prowess and will be looking to secure their place in the quarter-finals with another win.
Mali U23, on the other hand, fought hard to earn a 1-1 draw against Israel in their first match. The Eagles will be eager to build on that result and challenge for a knockout stage berth.
This encounter is likely to be a clash of styles, with Japan’s fluid attacking play up against Mali’s physical and direct approach. The outcome could hinge on which team can impose their preferred tempo on the match.
Japan U23 vs Mali U23 Lineups and Formation
Japan U23 Lineup (Probable 4-3-3): Yamamoto, Takai, Fujito, Ohata, Hirakawa, Mito, Fujio, Kimura, Kokubo, Saito, Sekine
Mali U23 Lineup (Probable 4-2-3-1): Doumbia, T Diarra, Diallo, Doucoure, Jiddou, B Diarra, Diarra, Traore, Diakite, Tounkara, Diomande
Coach Go Oiwa is likely to stick with the successful 4-3-3 formation that served Japan well in their opening match. The attacking trio of Fujito, Fujio, and Yamamoto will be crucial in breaking down Mali’s defense.
Mali’s coach Alou Badra Diallo is expected to maintain the 4-2-3-1 system that earned them a draw in their first game. The creative midfield trio behind striker Doumbia will be key to Mali’s attacking prospects.
Injuries and Unavailable Players
As of the latest reports, there is no official information available about injuries or unavailable players for either Japan U23 or Mali U23 ahead of this match. Both teams appear to have full squads to choose from, barring any last-minute fitness issues.
It’s worth noting that in tournament football, especially with young players, teams often keep injury news closely guarded. Any changes to the lineup due to unforeseen circumstances will likely only be revealed close to kick-off time.
Where to Watch
Fans in the United States can catch the action live on Peacock, NBC Sports App, and nbcsports.com. The match kicks off at 7:00 PM local time (2:00 PM ET / 11:00 AM PT).
Japan U23 vs Mali U23 Live Streaming and TV Schedule:
- United Kingdom: discovery+, EuroSport Player UK, discovery+ App
- Germany: Eurosport Player Deutschland
- France: Eurosport Player France, MAX
- Spain: Eurosport Player Spain
- Italy: Eurosport Player Italy
- Australia: Stan Sport, 9Now
- Canada: CBC Sports App, cbcsports.ca
- Japan: TBS, NHK BS 1
Who Will Win?
Japan U23 enter the match as favorites, given their impressive start to the tournament and recent form. However, Mali U23 have shown they can be resilient opponents and should not be underestimated.
Prediction
Japan U23 vs Mali U23 Prediction: Japan U23 2-1 Mali U23
While Mali are likely to put up a stronger fight than Paraguay did against Japan, the Samurai Blue’s attacking quality should see them through. Expect a closely contested first half before Japan’s superior technical ability helps them secure the win in the second period.
Stats and Form
Japan U23 have been in excellent form, winning five of their last six matches across all competitions. They’ve scored an impressive 12 goals while conceding only 5 during this run.
Mali U23 have had mixed results in their recent outings, with two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five matches. Their defensive solidity has been a strong point, conceding only four goals in these games.
Head to Head
These two sides have faced each other only once before at the senior level, in a friendly match in 2018 that ended in a 1-1 draw. This will be their first competitive encounter at the U23 level.
Standings
After the first round of matches, the Group D standings are as follows:
- Japan U23 – 3 points (+5 goal difference)
- Israel U23 – 1 point (0 goal difference)
- Mali U23 – 1 point (0 goal difference)
- Paraguay U23 – 0 points (-5 goal difference)
A win for Japan would secure their place in the quarter-finals, while Mali need at least a draw to keep their hopes alive going into the final group match.
Latest News
Japan U23 midfielder Shunsuke Mito, who scored twice in the opening match, has been praised by coach Go Oiwa for his impact on the team. Oiwa stated, “Mito’s performances have been crucial for us. His ability to link play and find the back of the net gives us an extra dimension in attack.”
For Mali U23, forward Cheickna Doumbia, who scored their equalizer against Israel, has emphasized the team’s determination. “We showed great spirit to come back against Israel,” Doumbia said. “Now we’re focused on giving everything against Japan and getting a positive result.”
As both teams make their final preparations, the stage is set for an enthralling Olympic football encounter in Bordeaux.
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