Japan VS Colombia Match Prediction

Japan are yet to beat Colombia in three meetings between the nations, only managing to avoid defeat on one of those occasions. 

The first game between Japan and Colombia took place at the FIFA Confederations Cup in 2003, with Colombia winning the game 1-0. 

Since that game there has been a 0-0 draw in the Kirin Cup, while a FIFA World Cup clash in 2014 saw a James Rodriguez-inspired Colombia run out 4-1 winners.

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Japan v Colombia: Prediction

Japan showed plenty of attacking quality in their 5-4 loss to Nigeria last time out, but the defensive issues that were plain to see are likely to be ruthlessly exploited by Colombia. 

A lot of goals look on the cards in this match - the opening round of games involving these sides saw 13 goals scored - so it should be very entertaining to watch, but Colombia have a much stronger team on paper and they should come out on top to boost their chances of qualification.

Japan v Colombia: Betting Tips

Colombia look good value despite their status as favourites for this game, with odds of 4/5 tempting for the South American side to win against Japan, who are priced at 7/2 here. The draw can be backed at 12/5, but both teams to score is of much more interest at odds of 4/6. Over 2.5 goals looks a near-certainty to come in during this game and this bet is up for grabs at 5/6.

Japan's 5-4 loss at the hands of Nigeria was the game of the tournament so far, but defensive improvements will certainly be required if the Asian nation are to progress in the Olympics.

Late goals from new Arsenal signing Asano and Suzuki almost earned Japan a point, but Etebo's four goals proved enough to claim the points for Nigeria. Asano and Suzuki both started on the bench against Nigeria and should have done enough to be promoted to the starting line-up, with Japan's chances of qualification likely to be over if they lose this match.

Japan likely XI:

Kushibiki, Endo, Fujiharu, Shiotani, Ueda, Muroya, Oshima, Nakajima, Asano, Suzuki, Minamino.
 

A 2-2 draw against Sweden was a disappointing start to Colombia's Olympics campaign, with the South American side genuine dark horses for the gold medal. Gutierrez had put Colombia ahead but Pabon had to score a penalty to salvage a point after Sweden battled back to take the lead.

Balanta and Preciado both made a positive impact from the substitutes bench in that match and could be included in the starting line-up here, with Roa and Borja possibly dropping out.

Colombia likely XI:

Bonilla, Tesillo, Balanta, Palacios, Perez, Barrios, Balanta, Pabon, Preciado, Rodriguez, Gutierrez.

Japan have already been involved in one thrilling match at the Olympics and this has the potential to be another, while Colombia\'s 2-2 draw against Sweden was well worth watching too. The attacking class of Colombia should prove to be too much for Japan\'s leaky defence, which struggled to cope with Nigeria last time out. Colombia to edge another goal-laden match with plenty of action to get excited about.

Colombia are unbeaten in all three of their historic meetings against Japan.