Qatar match preview

As Takeshi Okada leads his Blue Samurai forces against Qatar he knows with both squads tied two points behind Australia a victory is an absolute must to avoid the disaster of not qualifying for the World Cup. However without a victory over Qatar in the past and with so much on the line, they have a massive task.

Takeshi Okada said of the match:

“We are well prepared for this match. I am happy with the way we have approached this match. I am extremely happy to find the weather so much to our liking. In fact, I am quite surprised that it is so pleasant.”

The Blue Samurai are troubled with a number of injuries including Celtic’s Shunsuke Nakamura who is questionable.

Takeshi Okada would not reveal his lineup only to say:

“We will see how things go in our last training session. I will decide on the playing 11 after the final training session on Tuesday evening.”

Many consider this match as the definitive point for Takeshi Okada’s career heading up Japan as without a win he will feel enormous pressure to step down.

Enjoy the match and I will be providing regular updates throughout.