Kubo Carries Japan · Mitoma & Minamino OUT · Guadalajara Midnight
Tunisia arrive at this match knowing their opening results and with a clear understanding of what the group requires. Jalel Kadri's side are organised and difficult to play through — the Eagles of Carthage are compact, disciplined, and committed to making matches as uncomfortable as possible for more technically gifted opponents. They've appeared at multiple World Cups without ever making it past the group stage, and this squad carries the quiet determination of a team that knows the clock is ticking on this generation.
Issam Jebali (Nottingham Forest) leads the attack. Ellyes Skhiri (Borussia Dortmund) is the midfield anchor — technically excellent and physically dominant. Youssef Msakni provides creativity from wide areas. Tunisia need to frustrate Japan's pressing game and exploit any lapses in concentration from a Japanese side that is carrying significant injury absences in key positions.
Japan have been dealt a devastating injury blow before this tournament even began. Kaoru Mitoma — their most dangerous wide attacker and one of the most direct, skilful players in the Premier League — suffered a hamstring injury in Brighton's 3-0 win over Wolves and missed the squad entirely. Takumi Minamino is also out. Japan's attack, which was built around the Mitoma–Kubo axis, now runs entirely through one player.
Takefusa Kubo (Real Sociedad) is that player — and he is genuinely world-class. His first touch, his ability to ghost past a defender in tight space, and his delivery from wide areas make him the most complete creative player Asia has produced in this generation. Wataru Endo (Liverpool) captains the midfield. Yuto Nagatomo makes history as the first Asian player to appear at five World Cups. Japan are still dangerous — but they are carrying Mitoma's absence like a weight.