Zion Suzuki’s rescue was a turning point for Japan’s brush with the Indonesian national team

Liputan6.com, Jakarta- Japan successfully brought home full points when they were hosted by the Indonesian national team in the Group C match of the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifications in the Asian zone. Hajime Moriyasu’s troops won 4-0 on Friday (15/10/2024) evening WIB.

Playing under pressure from more than 60,000 spectators, Japan struggled against the Indonesian national team. Even the Indonesian national team won the first golden opportunity in this match.

Indonesia should have taken the lead when striker Ragnar Oratmangoen escaped the control of Japanese defenders and came face to face with goalkeeper Zion Suzuki. However, Zion can still counter Ragnar’s execution.

Zion’s important save is considered to be a turning point for Japan. Moriyasu thanked the Parma player because his save prevented the Indonesian national team from winning which could have changed the final result of the match.

“I think the Indonesian National Team had one or two golden opportunities at the start of the first half. But Zion thwarted them. The save was crucial and was a turning point for us. Thank you Zion,” said Moriyasu in a press conference after the match.

After Zion’s save, Japan was finally able to open the scoring in the 35th minute through an own goal from defender Justin Hubner. The Wolverhampton Wanderers player tried to throw the ball back but it went into his own goal.

Five minutes later Japan doubled the score through Takumi Minamino’s flick after grabbing winger Kaoru Mitoma’s pass. In the second half Japan added two more goals through midfielder Hidemasa Morita and right back Yukinari Sugawara.