Japan continued their impressive build-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a 2–0 victory over fellow qualifiers Ghana in an international friendly on Friday in Toyota.

Goals from Takumi Minamino and Ritsu Doan in each half secured the win, coming just weeks after Japan’s historic first-ever friendly triumph over Brazil.

Ghana, playing their first match since sealing World Cup qualification with a 1–0 win over Comoros last month, struggled to cope with Japan’s intensity and suffered setbacks, including what appeared to be a serious ankle injury to midfielder Abu Francis, who was stretchered off early in the second half.

Japan, missing Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma due to injury, again produced a strong performance. Liverpool midfielder Wataru Endo started on the bench on his return to the squad, while Tomoki Hayakawa replaced injured goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, who recently fractured his wrist and finger while playing for Parma.

Japan broke the deadlock in the 16th minute when Kaishu Sano picked out Minamino unmarked in the box, and the Monaco forward calmly finished after controlling the pass.

Ghana nearly responded through in-form Coventry striker Brandon Thomas-Asante, but his effort drifted wide. The Black Stars’ troubles deepened when Francis collided with Ao Tanaka and had to be carried off.

Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo also exited the match early in the second half after picking up a knock.

Japan doubled their lead before the hour mark when Doan collected the ball wide in the box, cut inside, and powered home a precise left-footed strike.

Japan will continue their World Cup preparations with a friendly against Bolivia in Tokyo on Tuesday, while Ghana travel to Seoul to face South Korea.