Japan expect tough Indonesia test with World Cup spot in reach

Japan are expecting a tough test against Indonesia when they face off on Thursday with a place at the World Cup in Qatar later this year in sight for the four-time Asian champions.

Hajime Moriyasu's side are second in Group B of the Asian Qualifiers, three points behind leaders Saudi Arabia, who they face in their final match on Tuesday.

They need to beat Indonesia in Surabaya and hope that Saudi Arabia slip up against China in Jeddah, but even a draw could be enough if the Saudis lose.

Japan have won both of their previous meetings with Indonesia, including a 4-0 triumph in Saitama in October.

However, the Indonesians have shown signs of improvement under Shin Tae-yong, and held Thailand to a 2-2 draw in their last match.

Moriyasu is expecting a tough game and has warned his players not to underestimate their opponents.

"Indonesia have improved a lot in recent years and they will be a difficult opponent for us," he said.

"We need to be at our best to get the result we need."

Japan will be without several key players for the match, including injured captain Maya Yoshida and midfielder Wataru Endo.

However, they have a strong squad and should be confident of getting the win they need to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

Indonesia, meanwhile, are already out of contention for a place in Qatar but will be looking to finish their campaign on a high.

Shin Tae-yong's side have shown some encouraging signs in recent matches and will be confident of giving Japan a game.

The match will be played at the Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium in Surabaya and will kick off at 19:00 local time.