Japan and Paraguay are tied at 1-1 in an international friendly match held at Panasonic Stadium Suita, in Suita, Japan, on Friday, October 10, 2025. The partial score reflects a lively first half, with Miguel Almirón opening the scoring for Paraguay at 20 minutes and Koki Ogawa equalizing for Japan at 26 minutes. The game, part of both teams’ preparations, remains ongoing as the halftime approaches.
The match kicked off at 7:20 AM (local time) and has drawn attention due to the teams’ tactical setups. Japan, coached by Hajime Moriyasu, employs a 3-4-2-1 formation, while Paraguay, under Gustavo Alfaro, opts for a 4-2-3-1. So far, the match shows balance, with the hosts pressing for a comeback.
Partial statistics indicate Paraguay’s dominance in shots, with 11 attempts compared to Japan’s 3, though the Japanese hold 46% possession.
- Paraguay: 11 shots, 1 on target, 54% possession, 176 passes, 84% pass accuracy.
- Japan: 3 shots, 1 on target, 46% possession, 144 passes, 82% pass accuracy.
Key moments timeline
The first half has seen intense action in the opening minutes, starting at 7:24 AM.
- At 20 minutes: Miguel Almirón, Paraguay’s midfielder, receives a pass from Damián Bobadilla and scores with precision, making it 0-1.
- At 26 minutes: Koki Ogawa, Japan’s forward, capitalizes on an assist from Kaishu Sano to tie the game at 1-1 with a sharp shot.
- At 27 minutes: The referee validates Japan’s goal after a quick review, keeping the match’s fast pace.
- At 32 minutes: The score update confirms the draw, with the game flowing toward the end of the first half.
- At 33 minutes: Paraguay increases pressure, but Japan’s defense holds the partial result.
Lineups and individual highlights
Japan’s lineup features Zoichi Suzuki in goal, a defense led by Takehiro Watanabe, and a midfield with Ritsu Doan and Takumi Minamino. Ogawa, aged 19, emerges as a key figure in attack, while Sano distributes plays effectively.
Paraguay relies on Roberto Fernández in goal, Gustavo Gómez in defense, and Almirón, number 10, leading the midfield. Bobadilla, who provided the assist, strengthens the team’s quick transitions.
These players elevate the friendly’s quality, with early ratings highlighting Ogawa and Sano as the most influential so far.
The match tests tactical adjustments in a preparation setting. Both teams seek rhythm, with Japan leveraging speed on the wings and Paraguay betting on precise counterattacks. The intensity keeps the crowd engaged at the stadium.
Partial match statistics
The numbers reveal a competitive game, with Paraguay more aggressive in attack. Japan has committed three fouls compared to Paraguay’s ten, with no cards issued yet.
Possession tilts slightly toward Paraguay at 54%, but Japan responds with shorter, accurate passes. Paraguay has two offside calls, while neither team has earned corners.
These stats suggest potential shifts in the second half, depending on coaching adjustments.
Players in focus in the first half
Almirón, with his playmaking vision, defines Paraguay’s early moment by converting Bobadilla’s created chance. The midfielder, known for European league performances, adds a goal to his tally.
Ogawa responds with opportunism, scoring after a combination with Sano. The 26-year-old Japanese forward shows goal-scoring instinct in friendlies, securing the quick equalizer.
Minamino and Gómez also stand out, with the Japanese organizing the midfield and the Paraguayan pressuring the opposing defense.
The dynamic between these players drives the balanced scoreline, with the game continuing without major interruptions.
Ongoing match outlook
The friendly continues with the first half nearing its end at 33 minutes, and the second half promising more action. Panasonic Stadium Suita, with a 39,000-seat capacity, sees moderate attendance for the event.
Coaches monitor fatigue, with substitutes like Daichi Kamada for Japan and Ángel Romero for Paraguay available. The balance suggests an open outcome, hinging on decisive plays.
Factors like FIFA rankings—19th for Japan and 37th for Paraguay—add layers to the tactical test. The match remains live, with real-time updates.
