Our prediction for this World Cup 2026 match:
Spain will look to seal top position in Group E when they take on Japan at Khalifa International Stadium on Thursday. Following a thrilling 7-0 win over Costa Rica, La Roja shared the spoils with Germany in their second group game. The Spaniards are one point away from making it to the last 16, and they are likely to adopt a cautious approach in the decider. Sergio Busquets is one yellow card away from suspension, while Alvaro Morata is pushing for a recall after scoring as a substitute in the 1-1 draw with Germany.
Gavi, who missed the last training session with injury, is rated doubtful for the last group game. The Samurai Blue, on the other hand, aim to overtake Spain in top position, but given their poor display in a 1-0 loss to Costa Rica, we are tempted to put our money on Luis Enrique’s troops. Both Ito and Asano are pushing for a start, with Nagatomo and Ueda likely to drop to the bench.