Japan and Greece meet in a Group C 2014 World Cup match which is going to pit a speedy, forward attacking side in Japan versus a taller and older Greek side.
Both sides are coming off losses with Greece losing to Columbia 3-0 while Japan lost 2-1 to the Ivory Coast giving up two goals in the second half narrowly losing the match. Japan had the opportunity to beat the Ivory Coast only to watch it's early first half lead go away as the Elaphants ignited with two goals to win the match.
“For four years now, we have focused on attack,” Kawashima said to FIFA.com. “We want to keep the ball and move it forward, using all of our qualities and technical ability to score goals. This is how we will play. We will attack.”
Japan will play a very fast paced game and move the ball with tempo while Greece will really have to turn on its engines to keep the pace with the younger Japanese squad. Greece had good ball possession in its World Cup opener against Columbia but showed that possession is meaningless unless you play with vigor and energy to support the ball. Spain showed that in yesterday’s loss to Chile.
Greece is going to need a consorted effort from its entire squad as Japan will put the Greeks against the wall if they don’t show up. Kostas Mitroglu, who scored three goals in Greece’s qualifying playoffs versus Romania will more than likely get a start in this match as he did not get the start in Greece’s opening match against Columbia.
If Greece wins today, it would only be their second all-time World Cup win as they have never gotten out of the Group stage in their only two World Cup appearances.
I predict that Japan will overpower the Greek’s and take control of the match winning 2-0 as I see the pace by Japan to much for the older and taller Greek side.
My prediction: Japan wins 2-0
Betting odds via Bovada.lv
Japan: Pick Em' (-170) // +115 Moneyline
Greece: Pick Em' (+140) // +230 Moneyline
Draw: +250
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