KAGAWA MISSES JAPAN WORLD CUP QUALIFIER IN IRAQ

Shinji Kagawa could not feature in Japan’s World Cup qualifier against Iraq due to a dislocated left shoulder as announced by the Japan Football Association.


The Borussia Dortmund midfielder injured his left shoulder 10 minutes into the 1-1 draw with Syria at Tokyo Stadium. He was taken out of the field and substituted for ShuKurata.

“Right now I want the injury to heal as fast as it can” He said in a statement released by the Japan Football Association. “I expect the players will fight for victory against Iraq.”

Yasuyuki Konno found the net in the midway through the second half if the Japan vs Syria 1-1 friendly draw in which the former Manchester United midfielder, Kagawa got his left shoulder dislocated.

The Head coach VahidHalilhodzicnoted that the problem was a concern ahead of Japan’s next match.

“I have concerns over him definitely, which is not helpful as we travel for our next match. The result got here against Syria has provided us with a timely warning for the game with Iraq.”

Syria, who drew China after the Japan match currently have no chance to qualify for next year’s World Cup in their group A.

They took the lead three minutes into the second half when MardekMardkian headed in a cross from Al Mawas. About 10 minutes later, YutoNagatomo beat a Syrian defender in the box-18 before crossing to Konno, who scored found the net accurately, fourth of such in international matches.

Japan travelled to Tehran to face Iraq in the Group B qualifier. All of Iraq’s home qualifiers are being played in neutral countries.

Having three matches remaining, in the last round of Asian qualifying, Japan is on top of their group on a point difference over Saudi Arabia.