World Cup 2022: Reasons for Japan to be confident of beating Croatia in last 16

Samurai Blue have been knocked out at the round of 16 stage in three of the last five World Cups, including last time out in Russia, when they led Belgium 2-0 but eventually fell to a remarkable comeback from Roberto Martinez's side.

After topping Group E ahead of Spain and Germany, head coach Hajime Moriyasu and his players will sense a fantastic opportunity to create history for their nation at the Al Janoub Stadium in Al-Wakrah.

Here, Sports Mole looks at some reasons for Moriyasu's side to be confident of advancing to the final eight of the competition in Qatar.

Already beaten two European heavyweights

Having already defeated two European giants in the form of Germany and Spain to finish first in Group E, Japan will have absolutely no fear when they take on Croatia in the round of 16.

Japan had only won two of their 10 meetings against European nations at previous World Cup appearances, but they have already doubled that tally in Qatar and could be set to add to it on Monday.

Moriyasu's side showed an ability to soak up pressure and stay in the game against their more illustrious opponents, eventually beating Germany and Spain with only 26% and 17% possession respectively despite falling behind in both matches.

That could prove to be a superb blueprint against Croatia, who generally prefer to dictate play themselves given their technical strengths in midfield with the likes of Luka Modric, Matteo Kovacic and Marcelo Brozovic.

Ability to come from behind

Japan fell behind in all three of their fixtures in Group E, yet ended up topping the group with six points after stunning Spain and Germany.

Few people would have given them much chance of overturning 1-0 half-time deficits against the 2010 and 2014 World Cup winners, but quickfire doubles on both occasions completed dramatic turnarounds.

As such, even should they find themselves conceding first against Croatia, Moriyasu's side are extremely unlikely to panic and will retain high levels of belief that they can get themselves back into the game.

While that will be far from being the 54-year-old's gameplan, it is certainly a strong tool for any side to have within their armory, as Japan found out all too well when they were on the other end against Belgium in their last World Cup knockout match.

Strength in depth from the bench

With five substitutes available to be used by managers for the first time in World Cup history, strength in depth from the bench has never been more important on the grand stage.

Japan have showcased this as effectively as any nation competing in Qatar, with Freiburg winger Ritsu Doan equalising from the bench against both Germany and Spain, and the lively Takuma Asano bagging the crucial winner against Hansi Flick's side.

Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma has also caught the eye with his dazzling dribbling ability during some late cameos, while former Liverpool forward Takumi Minamino is always capable of grabbing a goal.

Whoever Moriyasu chooses to go with in his starting XI, the former Sanfrecce Hiroshima boss will be supremely confident that he has options to turn to should he wish to change the game.

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