Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2026 World Cup qualifying match.
Indonesia are not like China, whom Japan demolished (7:0). Although the Indonesians did lose to the Chinese side (1:2), they generally appear much stronger than the Chinese team. Can they halt the unbeaten leader of Group C?
Indonesia
Indonesia are currently a very young team, with an average age of 24.6 years, and feature many overseas players from Europe. It's not surprising, given Indonesia's history as a former colony of the Netherlands, resulting in many descendants. This has given them a boost from finishing last in the second stage of the previous World Cup qualifiers to having a chance to compete for a spot in the 2026 World Cup. They have already held Saudi Arabia to a draw (1:1), drew with Australia (0:0), and almost secured a win against Bahrain (2:2), conceding the equaliser in injury time.
Japan
Japan deal decisively with such emerging teams, as shown in their game against Bahrain, who had beaten Australia but were crushed 5:0 by Japan. Since the start of 2024, the Japanese team has played 15 matches, losing only twice in the Asian Cup—to Iraq in the group stage (1:2) and to Iran in the quarter-finals (1:2). Notably, Japan also faced Indonesia in Qatar, scoring three times while Indonesia netted a consolation goal only in the 91st minute.
Indonesia vs Japan Prediction
Indonesia are unlikely to stop the group's main favourite even at home. Japan also boast plenty of European-based players who play at a much higher level. It’s better to bet on the visitors with a handicap of -1.5.
