19 January 2024 at 11:30
Match Summary
Iraq defeated Japan 2:1. The match was played in Asian Cup 2023. Goals were scored by Aymen Hussein 5′, Aymen Hussein 45′, W. Endo 90′. 2 yellow cards were shown. Iraq had 28% possession while Japan held 72%. Iraq had 8 shots (3 on target) compared to 15 (2 on target) for Japan. Iraq made 5 substitutions, Japan made 5. VAR was involved: Penalty cancelled (Takuma Asano 57′).
Match Events
Key match events between Iraq and Japan — 3 goals and 2 cards recorded during the match.
assist: Ahmed Al Hajjaj
assist: R. Hatate
Match Statistics
Iraq had 28% possession against Japan's 72%. Iraq registered 8 shots (3 on target) while Japan managed 15 (2 on target). Corner kicks: 1–13. Fouls committed: 11–14.
Lineups
Iraq lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation under Jesús Casas, while Japan deployed a 4-2-3-1 under H. Moriyasu.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Iraq is 6.77, compared to 6.86 for Japan. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Iraq's highest-rated starter is Ibraheem Bayesh (6.84), while Japan's best-rated player is J. Ito (7.35).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Iraq have contributed 10 goals and 9 assists this season, led by Ibraheem Bayesh (5G). Japan's starters account for 2 goals and 5 assists, spearheaded by T. Minamino (2G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Iraq deploy 4 defenders rated — on average, against Japan's 4-man backline averaging 6.78. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Iraq field 5 midfielders averaging 6.77, versus Japan's 5 rated 6.96. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Iraq start 1 forward(s) averaging 6.78, compared to 1 for Japan averaging —. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 49% for Iraq and 46% for Japan. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Iraq's starters have collected 12 yellow cards this season, compared to 3 for Japan. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Iraq's starting XI is 28.2 (youngest: Youssef Amyn (22), oldest: Rebin Solaka (33)), while Japan average 28.4 (youngest: Z. Suzuki (23), oldest: S. Taniguchi (34)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Iraq's starters average 20 league appearances each, versus 4 for Japan. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Coach: Jesús Casas
Substitutes
Coach: H. Moriyasu
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Iraq have recorded 4 wins, 0 draws and 2 defeats. Japan show 3 wins, 2 draws and 1 losses from their last 6 outings.
Iraq
Japan
API data: 20 Apr 2026