Ritsu Doan Scores Stunning Goal from Favorite Angle as Japan Defeats Ghana 2-0 in Kirin Challenge Cup
Table of Contents
Match Overview
On November 14, 2025, the Japan national football team faced Ghana in an international friendly match at Toyota Stadium as part of the Kirin Challenge Cup 2025. Japan won 2-0, with the first goal scored by Takumi Minamino and the second goal by Ritsu Doan. Doan's left-footed strike to the near post, from his favorite shooting angle, became the highlight of the match and demonstrated his confidence and precision.
Japan controlled the match from the beginning, maintaining possession while pressing Ghana effectively. The team’s organized defense limited Ghana’s attacking options, allowing Japan to gradually dominate the game and create scoring opportunities.
First Goal by Takumi Minamino
The first goal came in the 16th minute. Kosuke Sano’s precise vertical pass found Takumi Minamino, who calmly entered the penalty area and finished with a composed shot. This goal immediately shifted the momentum in favor of Japan.
Minamino’s positioning, anticipation, and goal-scoring instinct were on full display. His movement opened space for teammates and allowed Ritsu Doan and Takefusa Kubo to execute their attacking patterns efficiently. The first goal also allowed Japan to maintain a controlled tempo, avoiding unnecessary risks while continuing to build attacks from the right side.
Ritsu Doan's Stunning Goal from Favorite Angle
In the 60th minute, Ritsu Doan scored the decisive goal. Receiving a pass from Takefusa Kubo on the right side of the penalty box, Doan adjusted with a few steps and struck the ball with his left foot. The ball flew sharply into the near post, leaving the goalkeeper no chance to save.
Doan commented after the match:
"I only had one chance inside the penalty area in that game, so I decided to take the shot immediately."
"I hit it quickly and compactly, exactly as I practiced and imagined."
"That angle is my favorite. I could even score with my eyes closed from that spot."
This goal not only showcased Doan’s individual skill but also highlighted the effectiveness of Japan’s right-side attack, which was well-coordinated with Kubo’s precise passing and Minamino’s intelligent movement. The goal symbolizes the refinement of Japan’s attacking patterns.
Opponent Condition and Time Zone Effects
Doan revealed that Ghana’s players were not at their best due to travel fatigue and time zone differences. He mentioned that during the game, some Ghana players said, "The time difference is tough," indicating the physical strain from the long journey.
Despite Ghana being undefeated in African qualifiers, they were clearly affected by the travel and time zone adjustment. Doan emphasized that while both teams were not at full capacity, Japan’s team gradually improved its performance and was able to capitalize on key opportunities.
Team Tactics and Performance
Japan’s right-side attack, particularly the Kubo-Doan combination, proved highly effective. The team created multiple opportunities for Doan to strike from his favorite angle. Takumi Minamino and Kosuke Sano’s vertical runs further enhanced Japan’s offensive efficiency.
Defensively, Japan remained disciplined with Sano orchestrating the midfield. The team quickly regained possession and neutralized Ghana’s physical attackers. Maintaining focus and concentration until the final whistle allowed Japan to keep a clean sheet.
Overall, under coach Moriyasu, the team has developed a stable system in 2025 emphasizing ball retention, side attacks, and rapid transition. The right-side partnership of Kubo and Doan now approaches world-class levels.
Player Analysis
Ritsu Doan: Scored a decisive goal from his favorite angle. Demonstrated exceptional finishing ability and composure under pressure.
Takefusa Kubo: Orchestrated Japan’s attack and provided a key assist to Doan, demonstrating vision and precision in passing.
Takumi Minamino: Opened the scoring and provided stability with his positioning and experience, controlling the tempo of the match.
Kosuke Sano: Acted as the midfield anchor with crucial ball recoveries and accurate distribution, contributing to both defense and attack.
Upcoming Match Against Bolivia
Japan will face Bolivia at the National Stadium on November 18, 2025. Lessons from the Ghana match, such as improving finishing precision and increasing attacking variety, will be crucial. Maintaining the strengths observed in the right-side attack and defensive stability will be key for further progress.
This November series serves as an important preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers, testing tactical cohesion and team performance. Players like Doan, Minamino, and Kubo are expected to continue leading Japan’s offensive efforts.
Summary
Japan defeated Ghana 2-0 in an impressive performance highlighting tactical awareness and individual brilliance. Ritsu Doan scored from his favorite angle, demonstrating his confidence and finishing skills. Takumi Minamino’s early goal set the tone, while Kubo and Doan’s right-side combination proved highly effective.
Ghana struggled with time zone fatigue, giving Japan an opportunity to exploit weaknesses. The match confirmed Japan’s tactical stability, particularly in attack and defense, and sets a strong foundation heading into the next match against Bolivia.
The performance of Doan, combined with coordinated team play, showcases the growth of the Samurai Blue and their readiness for future international challenges.
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