Kawashima keeps close eye on Tajikistan

Japan goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima is meticulously preparing for his side’s upcoming World Cup qualifier against Tajikistan.

The 28-year-old acquired footage of Tajikistan’s matches against Uzbekistan and fellow Group C participants North Korea, following Japan’s draw with Vadim Abramov’s men on September 6.

“Before I came to Japan, I watched their matches countless times,” Kawashima told Nikkan Sports. “I wouldn’t want Tajikistan to read this.”

“It’s important for the offence to score, but first we can’t allow any goals.”

Tajikistan, ranked 153rd by FIFA, are largely a mystery to Japanese players including Inter defender Yuto Nagatomo.

“I don’t know what kind of team (they) are. They’ll probably go over it in meetings,” he said.

Japan will host Vietnam in a friendly on Friday before facing Tajikistan on October 11.