Could Japan be the World Cup's dark horses?
Japan's national football team is being tipped as a potential 'dark horse' for the upcoming World Cup following a strong run of form against European opposition. With an expanded tournament format, analysts believe Japan's experienced squad is well-positioned to reach the quarter-finals for the first time.
Why it matters
It provides sports analysis on the shifting competitive landscape of international football as the World Cup expands.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Japan went unbeaten against European opposition at the last World Cup, beating Germany and Spain in the group stage and drawing with Croatia (1-1) in the round of 16 before being eliminated on penalties.
The article relies on sports statistics and expert commentary to form its analysis.
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