Japan vs China Tips - Japan backed to edge China in low-scoring World Cup qualifier

China were beaten 1-0 by South Korea in their last match as they made it two without a win. 

Japan have won five of their last 10 against China, with the other five matches ending in draws. 

Japan were outstanding in the second round of World Cup qualifying after winning all six of their matches. 

With 24 goals scored and none conceded, Japan have looked near-unbeatable in qualifying. Indeed, they finished nine points clear of North Korea in second, with the nation able to take their foot off the accelerator as the second round came to a close. 

Now, they need to hit the ground running as they look to ensure that the third round begins with a positive result. While China are a stubborn side that will look to ensure they give Japan little in the way of chances, the home side know that this is a game they should win. 

China struggled in the second round of World Cup qualifying as they could only secure two wins in their six, with this coming alongside two draws and two defeats. 

The eight points they secured means they were eight short of South Korea at the summit, with this chasm showing just how far behind the top teams they are. With the likes of Saudi Arabia and Australia to come alongside Japan, China will want to get something from this match as they try to ensure the third round starts positively. 

However, with just one win across their 16 meetings with Japan, it is tough to see China getting near their opponents. Indeed, while I am backing a low-scoring match, I do not predict China will get anything from the clash.