Japan vs Bahrain Live Stream – AFC World Cup Qualifiers Match Preview (20.03.25)

📅 Date: Thursday, March 20, 2025
🕒 Kick-off: 13:35 MSK
🏟️ Venue: Nissan Stadium, Yokohama, Japan
🏆 Competition: AFC 2026 World Cup Qualifiers – Group Stage
⚽ Coaches: Hajime Moriyasu (Japan), Juan Antonio Pizzi (Bahrain)

Japan faces Bahrain in a key FIFA World Cup qualifier at Nissan Stadium, Yokohama. Hajime Moriyasu’s Samurai Blue are favorites, while Juan Antonio Pizzi’s Bahrain will look to surprise and strengthen their qualification hopes.

Team Form and Standings

Japan: One of Asia’s strongest teams, consistently dominant in World Cup qualifying.
Bahrain: A well-organized team aiming to challenge for a qualification spot.

Key Players to Watch

Japan:
- Takefusa Kubo: The Real Sociedad winger provides creativity and attacking flair.
- Wataru Endo: The defensive midfielder controls Japan’s tempo and structure.
- Ko Itakura: A solid defender who leads Japan’s backline.
Bahrain:
- Ali Madan: The attacking midfielder is Bahrain’s main playmaker.
- Abdulla Yusuf Helal: A physical forward who can trouble Japan’s defense.
- Sayed Baqer: A key figure in Bahrain’s defensive stability.

Tactical Approaches

Japan (Hajime Moriyasu):
- High pressing and possession-based football.
- Utilizing Kubo’s dribbling to create chances.
- Quick transitions to break Bahrain’s defensive lines.
Bahrain (Juan Antonio Pizzi):
- Compact defensive setup with counter-attacks.
- Targeting set-piece opportunities to create scoring chances.
- Strong midfield organization to disrupt Japan’s rhythm.

Betting Tips

Japan to Win – Their home advantage and superior squad make them favorites.
Under 3.5 Goals – Bahrain’s defensive approach may limit Japan’s scoring.
Takefusa Kubo to Score Anytime – The winger is in great form for club and country.