Japan defeat Ghana friendly 2-0 as Minamino and Doan score, boosting Japan’s confidence ahead of the 2026 World Cup

Japan defeat Ghana friendly in a composed 2-0 victory on Friday, extending their strong run of form as preparations intensify for next year’s World Cup.

Also read: Sunday Oliseh praises Fredrick after brilliant Eagles win

The home crowd in Toyota watched a disciplined and energetic Japanese side overcome fellow qualifiers Ghana with goals from Takumi Minamino and Ritsu Doan.

Japan, who recently stunned Brazil 3-2 in Tokyo, produced another assured display despite missing Kaoru Mitoma through injury.

Wataru Endo returned to the squad but began on the bench, while Tomoki Hayakawa stepped in for the injured Zion Suzuki.

Japan took control early when Kaishu Sano slipped the ball to Minamino, who finished with precision after finding space in the box.

The Japan defeat Ghana friendly fixture took a worrying turn for the visitors when Abu Francis was stretchered off after a heavy challenge shortly into the second half, adding to Ghana’s injury concerns ahead of the tournament.

Ghana, playing their first match since sealing World Cup qualification with a tight victory over Comoros, created chances through Brandon Thomas-Asante but failed to find the target.

Their evening worsened when Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo also departed injured.

Doan sealed the result shortly before the hour mark with a sharp finish after cutting inside from the right, capping off a powerful spell of Japanese dominance.

The Japan defeat Ghana friendly win will further strengthen belief within the Samurai Blue camp as they head into Tuesday’s clash with Bolivia.

Also read: Sunday Oliseh praises Fredrick after brilliant Eagles win

Ghana, meanwhile, travel to Seoul for a meeting with South Korea as they continue fine-tuning for the global stage.