FIFA World Cup
World Cup 2018: Colombia vs Japan Preview
Colombia and Japan see each other once again in the stage group of a World Cup. In 2014, Los Cafeteros claimed an impressive 4-1 victory over Japan. Four years ago we also the emergence of a star in James Rodriguez who went on to signing with Real Madrid and its currently with Bayern Munich. However, this is Japan’s sixth consecutive participation and area looking to break some ground and surpass the Round of 16.
Team Forms:
Unfortunately, Colombia will not count with Frank Fabra who was ruled out of the tournament after an injury. Johan Mojica will replace Fabra and cap his first competitive cap. On the other side, Japan forward Shinji Okazaki is still nursing a calf problem and will not likely play.
However, Radamel Falcao returns to represent Colombia in a World Cup at the age of 32 and after missing last World Cup with an injury.
James Rodriguez:
What is clear at this moment is that James will not be in the starting lineup. James will not start due to a calf problem. Regardless, Colombia will be safe with Falcao at front. At least for the first half or match.
Starting Lineups:
Colombia: David Ospina; Santiago Arias, Oscar Murillo, Davinson Sanchez, Johan Mojica; Juan Quintero, Carlos Sanchez, Juan Cuadrado, Jefferson Lerma; Jose Izquierdo, Radamel Falcao
Japan: Eiji Kawashima; Hiroki Sakai, Maya Yoshida, Tomoaki Makino, Yuto Nagatomo; Makoto Hasebe, Gaku Shibasaki, Genki Haraguchi, Keisuke Honda, Takashi Inui; Yuya Osako
Prediction:
Colombia are undefeated against Japan in all competitions capping three games, 2 wins and 1 draw. Colombia came from a competitive round of qualifying matches against world powers such as Brazil, Argentina and Uruguay. In addition, they are managed by Argentinian Jose Pekerman who is looking to continue making history with these players.
Prediction: Colombia 2 – 1 Japan
