Japan Vs Spain: Player Ratings & Analysis

by Jhon Lennon 42 views

Let's dive into a detailed analysis of the Japan vs. Spain match, focusing on player ratings and key performances. This game was a real rollercoaster, and understanding individual contributions is crucial to appreciating the tactical battle that unfolded.

Japan Player Ratings

Japan's performance against Spain was a masterclass in tactical discipline and counter-attacking prowess. The player ratings reflect the collective effort and individual brilliance that secured their victory. Analyzing each player's contribution provides insight into Japan's game plan and execution. Let's break down the key players and their respective ratings:

  • Goalkeeper (GK): Shuichi Gonda - 7/10: Gonda had a busy night, facing a barrage of shots from the Spanish attack. While he conceded one goal, he made several crucial saves to keep Japan in the game. His distribution was generally good, although he had a couple of shaky moments under pressure. Gonda's presence in the box was commanding, and he organized his defense effectively. He demonstrated good reflexes and agility, denying Spain on multiple occasions. Overall, a solid performance from the veteran goalkeeper.
  • **Defenders (DF):
    • Yuto Nagatomo - 6.5/10:** Nagatomo, the experienced full-back, put in a decent shift, containing the Spanish wingers for the most part. His energy and experience were vital in the first half. While he showed his usual tenacity, he struggled to contain the constant pressure from the Spanish wingers. His experience, however, proved valuable in guiding the younger players through the intense periods of the match.
    • Maya Yoshida - 7/10:** The captain led by example, organizing the defense and making several important interceptions. Yoshida's leadership was evident throughout the match, as he marshaled his troops and kept them focused. He was also a threat in the opposing box, winning a few headers from set-pieces. Overall, a captain's performance from Yoshida.
    • Ko Itakura - 6/10:** Itakura had a tough time dealing with the Spanish forwards, particularly in the first half. He was often caught out of position and struggled to win aerial duels. However, he improved in the second half, making some crucial tackles and interceptions as Japan defended their lead. He needs to improve his concentration and decision-making under pressure.
    • Takehiro Tomiyasu - 7.5/10:** Tomiyasu was arguably Japan's best defender, putting in a commanding performance at the back. He was strong in the tackle, good in the air, and composed on the ball. He made several crucial clearances and interceptions to deny Spain's attackers. His versatility was also on display, as he seamlessly switched between center-back and right-back.
  • **Midfielders (MF):
    • Ao Tanaka - 8/10:** Tanaka's goal turned the game on its head, but his overall performance was equally impressive. He was energetic, combative, and always looking to win the ball back. He provided a crucial shield for the defense and also contributed in attack with his intelligent runs and passes. His goal was a testament to his determination and composure in front of goal.
    • Hidemasa Morita - 7/10:** Morita provided the steel in midfield, breaking up play and winning tackles. He was also composed on the ball, distributing it effectively to his teammates. He played a vital role in disrupting Spain's rhythm and preventing them from controlling the game. His work rate and commitment were commendable.
    • Daichi Kamada - 6.5/10:** Kamada had a relatively quiet game, failing to make a significant impact in attack. He struggled to find space between the lines and was often dispossessed. However, he worked hard defensively, tracking back and helping out his teammates. He needs to be more decisive and clinical in the final third.
  • **Forwards (FW):
    • Junya Ito - 7.5/10:** Ito was a constant threat down the right flank, using his pace and trickery to beat his markers. He created several opportunities for his teammates and was always looking to get in behind the defense. His crosses were dangerous, and he caused the Spanish defense problems throughout the match.
    • Daizen Maeda - 6/10:** Maeda worked tirelessly up front, pressing the Spanish defense and trying to create openings. However, he lacked the quality to make a significant impact in the final third. He was often isolated and struggled to hold up the ball. He needs to improve his finishing and decision-making.
    • Takefusa Kubo - 7/10:** Kubo showed flashes of brilliance, using his dribbling skills and vision to create opportunities. However, he was also inconsistent, giving the ball away too often. He needs to improve his consistency and decision-making to reach his full potential. Despite his inconsistencies, he showed glimpses of his immense talent.
  • Substitutes:
    • Ritsu Doan - 8.5/10: Doan changed the game after coming on as a substitute, scoring the equalizer and injecting energy into the attack. His impact was immediate, as he took on defenders and created chances. His goal was a well-taken strike, showcasing his composure and finishing ability.
    • Kaoru Mitoma - 7.5/10: Mitoma provided the assist for Tanaka's goal and was a constant threat down the left flank. His dribbling skills and pace caused the Spanish defense problems. His assist was a moment of brilliance, showcasing his vision and technical ability.
    • Takuma Asano - 6/10: Asano added fresh legs to the attack but failed to make a significant impact. He struggled to get involved in the game and was often isolated. He needs to improve his link-up play and decision-making.

Spain Player Ratings

Spain's dominance in possession didn't translate into goals, and their player ratings reflect their inability to break down Japan's resilient defense. Here’s a look at how each player performed:

  • Goalkeeper (GK): Unai Simon - 6/10: Simon had very little to do for large portions of the game. Could do little about either goal, leaving many to question his positioning, but overall did his job. His distribution was good, and he did seem comfortable with the ball at his feet. Simon's performance was unspectacular but he did nothing that could warrant criticism.
  • **Defenders (DF):
    • Cesar Azpilicueta - 5.5/10:** A disappointing performance, as the veteran struggled with Ito's pace. He struggled to contain the Japanese winger and was often caught out of position. Azpilicueta's experience was not enough to nullify Japan's attack, and he seemed off the pace throughout the match.
    • Rodri - 6.5/10:** Filling in at center-back, Rodri was decent, but his lack of pace was exposed at times. He played well despite being out of position, showcasing his versatility and understanding of the game. Rodri's performance was commendable, but his lack of natural defensive instincts was evident.
    • Pau Torres - 6/10:** Torres didn't have a terrible game, but was partially at fault for the second goal, not getting tight enough to his man. He struggled to contain Japan's forwards, and he seemed hesitant in possession at times. Torres' performance was underwhelming, as he failed to assert his dominance in the backline.
    • Alejandro Balde - 7/10:** The youngster was one of Spain's brightest sparks, showing great energy and attacking intent. He was a constant threat down the left flank, showcasing his dribbling skills and crossing ability. Balde's performance was promising, as he displayed maturity and composure beyond his years.
  • **Midfielders (MF):
    • Sergio Busquets - 6.5/10:** Busquets controlled the tempo for Spain, but his lack of mobility was an issue when Japan countered. His passing was precise, and he dictated the flow of the game, but his inability to track back quickly hurt Spain. Busquets' performance was typical of his style, but his lack of pace was a liability.
    • Gavi - 6/10:** Gavi showed flashes of brilliance but struggled to maintain consistency throughout the game. He was energetic and creative, but he also lost possession too often. Gavi's performance was a mixed bag, as he showcased his talent but lacked consistency.
    • Pedri - 7/10:** Pedri was Spain's most creative player, constantly looking to unlock the Japanese defense. His vision and passing range were impressive, and he created several opportunities for his teammates. Pedri's performance was a bright spot for Spain, as he demonstrated his exceptional talent.
  • **Forwards (FW):
    • Ferran Torres - 5.5/10:** Torres was largely anonymous and failed to make a significant impact on the game. He struggled to get involved in the game and was often isolated. Torres' performance was disappointing, as he failed to provide a spark in attack.
    • Alvaro Morata - 7/10:** Morata scored Spain's goal with a good header and looked lively early on. He was a constant threat in the box, and he showed good movement and finishing ability. Morata's performance was positive, as he demonstrated his goal-scoring prowess.
    • Dani Olmo - 6/10:** Olmo worked hard but lacked the cutting edge to trouble the Japanese defense. He struggled to create opportunities and was often dispossessed. Olmo's performance was lackluster, as he failed to make a significant impact.
  • Substitutes:
    • Nico Williams - 6.5/10: Williams added some energy to the attack but didn't create any clear-cut chances. He showed some pace and trickery, but he lacked the final product. Williams' performance was decent, but he failed to make a decisive impact.
    • Marco Asensio - 6/10: Asensio failed to make an impact after coming on, struggling to get involved in the game. He seemed hesitant and lacked confidence. Asensio's performance was underwhelming, as he failed to inject any creativity into the attack.
    • Ansu Fati - 6/10: Fati had little time to make an impact and didn't get many touches of the ball. He struggled to get involved in the game and was often isolated. Fati's performance was insignificant, as he had limited opportunities to showcase his talent.

Key Takeaways

  • Japan's Tactical Masterclass: Japan's disciplined defending and clinical counter-attacking proved too much for Spain. Their ability to absorb pressure and then strike with pace and precision was the key to their victory. The Japanese coach's tactical setup was spot-on, exploiting Spain's weaknesses and maximizing their own strengths.
  • Spain's Possession Without Penetration: Spain dominated possession but struggled to break down Japan's stubborn defense. Their lack of creativity and cutting edge in the final third was a major issue. Spain's over-reliance on possession without penetration ultimately cost them the game.
  • Individual Brilliance: Ritsu Doan's game-changing impact off the bench highlighted the importance of individual brilliance in crucial moments. His goal and overall energy injected new life into the Japanese attack. Doan's performance was a testament to his quality and determination.

In conclusion, the Japan vs. Spain match was a captivating encounter that showcased the contrasting styles of both teams. Japan's tactical discipline and clinical finishing secured a memorable victory, while Spain's possession-based approach ultimately proved ineffective. The player ratings reflect the individual contributions and highlight the key performers from both sides. Guys, what a game!