Japan have won six straight friendlies: prediction for Japan vs. Venezuela
The Kirin Challenge Cup 2026 friendly between Japan and Venezuela will take place on September 28 at Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima. For Hajime Moriyasu's side, the match will be another step in their preparations for the Asian Cup, while Venezuela continue rebuilding their squad under Oswaldo Vizcarondo.
Japan: victory over Uruguay and another step in squad renewal
Japan head into the match after a 3-1 victory over Uruguay. Kuryu Matsuki opened the scoring in the 11th minute, while Kento Shiogai and Ayase Ueda sealed a convincing result for the hosts after the break.
Moriyasu's team continue to blend experienced players with newcomers. Takefusa Kubo, Ao Tanaka, Junya Ito, Ritsu Doan and Daichi Kamada remain in the squad, while Ueda, with 19 goals in 44 appearances for Japan, retains his status as the first-choice centre-forward.
Venezuela: a deep squad and a focus on rebuilding
Venezuela have not played since June, when they defeated Iraq 2-0 away from home thanks to goals from Christian Casseres and Jesus Ramirez. The team have now embarked on their Asian tour with an expanded 34-man squad.
Oswaldo Vizcarondo continues to go without Salomon Rondon, Yeferson Soteldo and Jefferson Savarino. Most of the attacking burden will fall on David Martinez, Jesus Ramirez and Kevin Kelsy, while Yangel Herrera is expected to play an important role in midfield.
Match facts and head-to-head record
- Japan have won their last six friendlies in a row.
- Japan have lost just once in their last five matches — to Brazil at the World Cup.
- Venezuela continue to be without several experienced attacking players, including Salomon Rondon.
Japan's home momentum could prove decisive: prediction for Japan vs. Venezuela
Japan currently look like the more cohesive and dynamic team. Following their victory over Uruguay, the hosts have gained additional confidence, while the depth of their squad allows Moriyasu to change his combinations without a significant drop in quality.
Venezuela remain dangerous thanks to their individual quality in midfield and attack, but the lengthy gap between matches and their ongoing squad rebuild could affect their consistency. On home soil, Japan have a strong chance of controlling the game and limiting their opponents' opportunities.
