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England players at the end of the England v Japan game
England players at the end of the England v Japan game Pro Sport Images

Player ratings: England v Japan

Check out our player ratings as England slipped to a limp 1–0 defeat against Japan at Wembley. Kaoru Mitoma’s early strike exposed a flat and disjointed performance, in which few impressed and many struggled to make an impact in the final home friendly ahead of the World Cup.

01.04.26, 00:30 Updated 01.04.26, 07:57 3 Minute Read

Phil Martin

Phil Martin

England suffered a 1‑0 defeat against Japan at Wembley. Kaoru Mitoma’s sharp 23rd‑minute finish punished Cole Palmer’s loose touch and proved the only real moment of quality in a disappointing game. Much‑changed and disjointed, England dominated possession but carried little threat.

Jordan Pickford – 6
Had little chance with Kaoru Mitoma’s smart finish. Made one strong save from Ritsu Dōan to keep England in it. A steady night overall.

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Phil Martin

Phil Martin Author, journalist and veteran of eight major tournaments, and England top capper, with a background in sports writing, editing and publishing.

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