In just two game the Colombians have opened up a five point gap on their opponents tonight, and while Japan might not be considered as good a side as their foes they are managed by an expensive Italian and had greater expectations than this. If the Ivory Coast beat Greece in the other match then there is nothing Japan can do to change their fate, but a win in the best they can do and you can bet they’ll go for one if the players have any pride. 


Japan coach Alberto Zaccheroni must choose whether start either of Shinji Kagawa and Yasuhito Endo, where Colombia have the luxury of being able to rest key players just with fatigue or potential suspensions in mind, although Mario Yepes could miss out with a muscle injury, while striker Carlos Bacca has a similar problem