Without Corners or Set Pieces, Japan Breaks Through Indonesia’s Defense with Open Play

Japan once again demonstrated their quality as a top Asian team when they faced Indonesia in the final Group C match of the 2026 Asian World Cup Qualifiers, Tuesday, June 10, 2025, at Suita City Stadium, Osaka. Interestingly, all of Japan’s first-half goals came not from set pieces or corner kicks, but purely from well-structured and effective open play.

The first goal arrived in the 15th minute through Daichi Kamada, who finished a cross from the left side. Just a few minutes later, Takefusa Kubo doubled the lead by capitalizing on a rebound from his own penetrating run. Both goals were the result of Japan’s quick movement and trademark short passing combinations, with no involvement of corners or other set pieces.

Throughout the first half, Japan kept pressing Indonesia’s defense with open play patterns that were difficult to contain. Statistics showed Japan controlled more than 60% of possession, while Indonesia struggled to break free from the pressure and couldn’t score before halftime.

Japan’s dominance through open play serves as an important lesson for the Indonesian national team. Garuda must adapt to relentless pressure and learn to anticipate quick attacks if they want to compete at the Asian level.