Match Summary
Iran defeated Japan 2:1. The match was played in Asian Cup 2023. Goals were scored by H. Morita 28′, M. Mohebi 55′, A. Jahanbakhsh 90′ (pen.). 2 yellow cards were shown. Iran had 42% possession while Japan held 58%. Iran had 17 shots (4 on target) compared to 8 (2 on target) for Japan. Iran made 3 substitutions, Japan made 4.
Match Events
Key match events between Iran and Japan — 3 goals and 2 cards recorded during the match.
assist: S. Azmoun
Penalty
Match Statistics
Iran had 42% possession against Japan's 58%. Iran registered 17 shots (4 on target) while Japan managed 8 (2 on target). Corner kicks: 3–3. Fouls committed: 15–12.
Lineups
Iran lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation under A. Ghalenoei, while Japan deployed a 4-1-4-1 under H. Moriyasu.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Iran is 6.72, compared to 6.84 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. Iran's highest-rated starter is S. Khalilzadeh (7.20), while Japan's best-rated player is A. Ueda (7.26).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Iran have contributed 0 goals and 1 assists this season, led by —. Japan's starters account for 3 goals and 3 assists, spearheaded by A. Ueda (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
Iran deploy 4 defenders rated 7.20 on average, against Japan's 4-man backline averaging 6.70. 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
Iran field 5 midfielders averaging 6.90, versus Japan's 5 rated 6.83. 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
Iran 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 47% for Iran 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
Iran's starters have collected 3 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 Iran's starting XI is 32.7 (youngest: S. Ezatolahi (29), oldest: S. Khalilzadeh (36)), while Japan average 27.2 (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
Iran's starters average 3 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: A. Ghalenoei
Substitutes
Coach: H. Moriyasu
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Iran have recorded 1 wins, 3 draws and 2 defeats. Japan show 3 wins, 2 draws and 1 losses from their last 6 outings.
Iran
Japan
API data: 20 Apr 2026