Japan vs Venezuela Predictions, Picks & Odds – 28/09/2026
Japan vs Venezuela Preview
Japan are riding a wave of confidence after reaching the Round of 32 at the World Cup, and their recent form reflects that upward trajectory. Three wins from their last five outings, including an impressive 3-1 dismantling of Uruguay, show the Samurai Blue mean business on home soil at Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima. The squad appears fully fit, giving the coaching staff a full deck to work with.
Venezuela arrive in Hiroshima off the back of a solid 2-0 away victory against Iraq, continuing a decent run of three wins in four matches. Still searching for that elusive World Cup qualification, La Vinotinto will view this friendly as a valuable measuring stick against Asia's top-ranked nation. Daniel Pereira's fitness remains a concern, though both managers are expected to rotate and test fresh options during this encounter.
Japan's home advantage at Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima is a significant factor here. The Samurai Blue have been inconsistent with a win, loss, draw, win, draw sequence in recent outings, but that 3-1 dismantling of Uruguay showed real cutting edge. Venezuela arrived with a solid run including a 2-0 away victory over Iraq, yet their historical inability to beat Japan in five meetings is telling.
The home win at 1.33 looks like strong value given the considerable ranking gap between these sides. Japan sit 30 places above Venezuela in the world rankings, and with a fully fit squad at their disposal, the hosts should control proceedings. Daniel Pereira's potential absence only weakens the visitors further.
Backing over 2.5 goals at N/A also merits consideration. Japan's recent matches have produced goals freely, and four of five previous encounters ending in draws suggests competitive, open affairs. Both teams to score at 1.05 rounds out the selections nicely, as Venezuela have enough quality to find the net even if they ultimately fall short. Odds correct at time of publication.
Trends to Know about Japan vs Venezuela
- Japan beat Uruguay 3-1 recently
- Four of five meetings ended drawn
- Venezuela missing Daniel Pereira potentially
Form & Statistics: Japan vs Venezuela
Japan
Recent form
Season statistics (5)
Venezuela
Recent form
Season statistics (4)
Lineups: Japan vs Venezuela
Japan
Starters
- 1 Hayakawa
- 2 Seko
- 3 Itakura
- 4 Ito
- 5 Matsuki
- 6 Kaishu Sano
- 7 Kodai Sano
- 8 Nakamura
- 9 Doan
- 10 Suzuki
- 11 Ueda
Venezuela
Starters
- 1 Varela
- 2 Sanchez
- 3 Quintero
- 4 Balbo
- 5 Ferraresi
- 6 Libra
- 7 Herrera
- 8 Mendoza
- 9 Segovia
- 10 Martínez
- 11 Ramírez
Low confidence
Both lineups carry a speculative tag, drawn from a single source, so tactical details may shift before kickoff. That said, the projected 3-4-2-1 versus 4-2-3-1 matchup frames an interesting structural contest, with Japan's wing-backs likely to be key against Venezuela's wider midfield presence.
Ueda leads the line for Japan in what looks like a compact, possession-oriented shape, while Venezuela's 4-2-3-1 suggests a double pivot designed to protect and transition quickly. Treat both formations as working hypotheses until official confirmation arrives closer to the 10:25 UTC kickoff.
How to Watch Japan vs Venezuela Match?
What time is Japan vs Venezuela?
This friendly kicks off on 28 September 2026 at Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima.
Where is Japan vs Venezuela being played?
This match takes place at Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima in Hiroshima, Japan.
How Can I Watch Japan vs Venezuela on TV and Live Stream?
Check local listings for broadcast details, as friendly international coverage varies by region.
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