31 January 2024 at 11:30
Match Summary
Japan defeated Bahrain 3:1. The match was played in Asian Cup 2023. Goals were scored by R. Doan 31′, T. Kubo 49′, A. Ueda 64′ (o.g.), A. Ueda 72′. 3 yellow cards were shown. Bahrain had 47% possession while Japan held 53%. Bahrain had 7 shots (2 on target) compared to 13 (5 on target) for Japan. Bahrain made 5 substitutions, Japan made 5. VAR was involved: Goal confirmed (Takefusa Kubo 49′).
Match Events
Key match events between Bahrain and Japan — 4 goals and 3 cards recorded during the match.
Own Goal
assist: S. Maikuma
Match Statistics
Bahrain had 47% possession against Japan's 53%. Bahrain registered 7 shots (2 on target) while Japan managed 13 (5 on target). Corner kicks: 1–7. Fouls committed: 5–14.
Lineups
Bahrain lined up in a 4-1-4-1 formation under Pizzi, while Japan deployed a 4-3-2-1 under H. Moriyasu.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Bahrain is 6.90, compared to 7.04 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. Bahrain's highest-rated starter is Ebrahim Lutfallah (8.30), while Japan's best-rated player is K. Nakamura (7.28).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Bahrain have contributed 0 goals and 0 assists this season, led by —. Japan's starters account for 8 goals and 6 assists, spearheaded by Y. Nakayama (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
Bahrain deploy 4 defenders rated — on average, against Japan's 4-man backline averaging 6.87. 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
Bahrain field 5 midfielders averaging 6.43, versus Japan's 5 rated 7.13. 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
Bahrain start 1 forward(s) averaging —, compared to 1 for Japan averaging 7.26. 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 —% for Bahrain and 49% 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
Bahrain's starters have collected 0 yellow cards this season, compared to 5 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 Bahrain's starting XI is 29.8 (youngest: Mohamed Marhoon (27), oldest: Ebrahim Lutfallah (33)), while Japan average 26.9 (youngest: Z. Suzuki (23), oldest: W. Endo (32)). 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
Bahrain's starters average 1 league appearances each, versus 6 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: Pizzi
Substitutes
Coach: H. Moriyasu
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Bahrain have recorded 2 wins, 0 draws and 4 defeats. Japan show 3 wins, 2 draws and 1 losses from their last 6 outings.
Bahrain
Japan
API data: 20 Apr 2026