Japan did this against Belgium in the last world cup, they came alive and gave their best performance when it matters, it's like the knockout stage brings out the best of them, with Mitoma still to come on when it opens up a bit this could get interesting, although just watch Moriyasu go full defense mode, ugh I hope not they are doing so well
Good job going 1 up, Japan! But I hope they won’t fall victim to their own tactics here. Croatia might try to burst through like Japan does at the start of the 2nd half. Conceding just before the half ends will give you that motivation to start in full gear once the 2nd half starts, like Japan done several times at this World Cup. I also hope they don’t try to sit back and defends after this goal for the rest of the match, but to continue to look for that 2nd goal and more.
I dont know the answer but probably need to seek 1 more goal then close the game out. Players who will tire after this half will be probably Maeda and possibly Morita who has been literally everywhere. Nagatomo will tire too and needs to change after max 10min of the 2nd half. Surely Asano, Mitoma, Tanaka the natural subs for those 3. Croatia will try something, probably press higher.
Even Moriyasu can’t be dumb enough to sit back now. Keep the pressure on and get another. They are dead on their feet and it’s only HT. Just bring on Mitoma for Nagatomo as usual and he will take us to the QF.
Hopefully, we don't play passive and bring in Mitoma. I like Nagatomo and how much he has given to the NT, but it's Mitoma time!
Kamada having a great game. You wonder if Croatia will try part press and also lots of aerial balls. Maeda needs to sub, he looks tired.
Good subs. closing down in CM isnt as fast and Modric getting better. Wonder if worth put on Ao Tanaka.