Japan U23 vs Spain U23 Prediction: Spain U23 is favored to win against Japan U23 with a predicted score of 3-1, showcasing their technical prowess and ability to overcome Japan’s strong defensive record in this Olympic quarterfinal clash.
The Groupama Stadium in Lyon is set to host a thrilling Olympic men’s football quarterfinal match between Japan U23 and Spain U23 on August 2, 2024. Both teams have shown impressive form in the tournament so far, setting the stage for an enticing encounter.
Match Preview
Japan U23 enters this crucial fixture with a perfect record, having won all three of their group stage matches. The Samurai Blue demonstrated their attacking prowess by netting seven goals while maintaining a clean sheet throughout the group phase. Their most recent victory, a hard-fought 1-0 win against Israel, showcased their ability to grind out results in tight situations.
Spain U23, on the other hand, finished second in their group after a surprising 2-1 defeat to Egypt in their final group match. Despite this setback, La Rojita remains a formidable opponent with a talented squad capable of turning the tide in their favor.
Japan U23 vs Spain U23 Lineups and Formation
Japan U23 Lineup (4-4-2): Kokubo, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamada, Fujio, Uchino, Nishio, Hosoya, Kimura, Sato, Yamamoto
Spain U23 Lineup (4-3-3): Lopez, Ruiz, Gomez, Garcia, Sanchez, Miranda, Tenas, Cubarsi, Barrios, Oroz, Baena
Japan is likely to stick with their successful 4-4-2 formation, which has served them well throughout the tournament. The dynamic duo of Hosoya and Fujio up front will be crucial in breaking down the Spanish defense.
Spain is expected to deploy their traditional 4-3-3 system, with a strong midfield trio of Lopez, Barrios, and Baena controlling the tempo of the game. The attacking trident of Oroz, Ruiz, and Gomez will pose a significant threat to Japan’s so far impenetrable defense.
Key Players to Watch
For Japan, Mao Hosoya has been a standout performer, coming off the bench to score the winning goal against Israel. His impact as a super-sub might earn him a starting spot in this crucial match.
Spain will look to Sergio Gómez for creativity and attacking impetus. The versatile player has shown his ability to influence games from various positions on the pitch.
Injured Players and Unavailable List
While both teams appear to have a relatively healthy squad, there are a few players who may not be available for this crucial match:
Pau Cubarsi (Spain)
Status: Available
Note: Previously suspended for two yellow cards, now eligible to play
Rihito Yamamoto (Japan)
Status: Questionable
Note: Substituted at halftime in the previous match against Israel, but expected to be available
Alejandro Iturbe (Spain)
Status: Likely Benched
Note: Expected to be replaced by Arnau Tenas in goal
Ryotaro Araki (Japan)
Status: Potential Substitute
Note: May lose his starting spot to Mao Hosoya based on recent performances
Eric Garcia (Spain)
Status: Available
Note: Likely to return to the starting lineup after being rested in the previous match
It’s important to note that neither team has reported any major injuries or suspensions that would significantly impact their squad selection for this quarterfinal clash.
Head-to-Head and Form
These two teams have a history in Olympic competition, with Spain narrowly edging Japan 1-0 in the semi-finals of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. However, Japan had previously defeated Spain at the London 2012 Games, indicating that this matchup could go either way.
Japan’s recent form has been impeccable, with three wins out of three in the group stage. Spain, despite their loss to Egypt, had shown strong form in their first two matches, securing victories against Uzbekistan and the Dominican Republic.
Where to Watch
Fans in the United States can catch the action live on Peacock and Universo. The match kicks off at 3:00 PM local time (9:00 AM ET).
For other countries, here are the live stream and TV schedules:
- United Kingdom: discovery+, EuroSport Player UK, discovery+ App
- Canada: CBC Sports App, cbcsports.ca
- Australia: Stan Sport, 9Now
- France: Eurosport Player France, MAX
- Germany: Eurosport Player Deutschland
- Spain: RTVE.es, Eurosport Player Spain, fuboTV España, TVE La 1
- Italy: Eurosport Player Italy
- Japan: TVer
Who Will Win?
This quarterfinal promises to be a closely contested affair. Japan’s defensive solidity will be put to the test against Spain’s creative attacking play. While Spain boasts a squad filled with technical prowess, Japan’s tournament form and tactical discipline cannot be overlooked.
Given Japan’s impressive run and Spain’s recent stumble, we might see a tight match with Japan edging it by a single goal.
Japan U23 vs Spain U23 Prediction: Japan U23 1-3 Spain U23
The winner of this match will advance to the semi-finals, moving one step closer to Olympic glory. With both teams possessing the quality to go all the way, this quarterfinal clash could very well be a preview of the gold medal match.
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