JAPAN

Ranking 61. Last time Group stage. Manager Akira Nishino — Japan’s preparations for the tournament have been far from ideal. Fired coach Vahid Halilhodzic back in April, citing ‘communication problems’ and appointed the football association’s technical director Nishino. His coaching experience is derived mainly from the JLeague and Japan’s youth sides, They’re a bit like Sunderland — chopping and changing the coach hints at chaos. Key man Maya Yoshida (right) — it has been a demanding season for Yoshida as Southampton flirted with Premier League relegation, so weirdly the World Cup may come as something of a respite. The centre-half is vastly experienced and played in every qualifying match.

Rising star Takashi Usami — the 26-year-old can be a playmaker, winger or a second striker and had a decent season at German second division side Fortuna Dusseldorf on loan from Augsburg. Gained vast JLeague experience as a youngster with Gamba Osaka.

Prospects Likely to miss out, but perhaps they can spring a surprise.