Japan defeated fellow World Cup qualifiers Ghana 2–0 in a home friendly on Friday, strengthening their momentum with just over six months remaining before next year’s tournament. Takumi Minamino and Ritsu Doan scored on either side of halftime in Toyota, giving Japan back-to-back wins following last month’s historic friendly victory over Brazil.

The match marked Ghana’s first outing since sealing their World Cup spot with a 1–0 win over Comoros. Their preparations suffered a setback when midfielder Abu Francis was stretchered off early in the second half with what appeared to be a serious ankle injury.

Japan, who beat Brazil 3–2 in Tokyo, again impressed despite the absence of Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma through injury. Liverpool midfielder Wataru Endo returned to the squad but started on the bench after missing the Brazil match. Tomoki Hayakawa replaced injured goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, who fractured a wrist and finger while playing for Parma.

Japan took the lead in the 16th minute when Kaishu Sano picked out an unmarked Minamino in the box, and the Monaco forward calmly slotted home. Ghana’s first real opportunity came through Brandon Thomas-Asante—who has scored 10 goals for Coventry in the Championship this season—but he dragged his effort wide.

Ghana endured further setbacks as Francis departed injured after a challenge with Ao Tanaka, and Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo also exited early in the second half. Doan made it 2–0 just before the hour mark, cutting inside from the right side of the box before driving in a left-footed finish.

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