Ghana head coach Otto Addo has lauded Japan’s sharp, disciplined performance after the Black Stars fell 2-0 in their opening match of the 2025 Kirin Cup on Friday at the Toyota Stadium.
Takumi Minamino and Ritsu Doan struck in either half to seal a deserved victory for the hosts, who controlled long stretches of the contest.
Reflecting on the defeat, Addo acknowledged that his side struggled to cope with Japan’s tempo and precision.
“Overall, we lost to Japan in terms of the number of shots they took,” the 50-year-old said.
“Japan also started the second half very well. They controlled the game better and created clearer chances. We have to admit that they deserved the win.”
He noted that while Ghana attempted to remain compact, Japan’s speed in transition and their decisiveness in the final third proved decisive.
“This is the level of intensity we must be prepared for. Japan were very efficient, very aggressive, and they punished our mistakes,” he added.
The Black Stars will wrap up their November international window on Tuesday when they face Korea Republic.
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