Leeds United midfielder Ao Tanaka was back in international action on Friday, playing 68 minutes as Japan continued their preparations for the 2026 World Cup with a composed 2-0 win over Ghana at Toyota Stadium in Aichi Prefecture.

In a confident display from the Samurai Blue, goals from Takumi Minamino and Ritsu Doan secured a comfortable friendly victory for Hajime Moriyasu’s side, who have already sealed their place at next year’s tournament.

Tanaka delivered a tidy and industrious performance in midfield, showcasing the calm authority Leeds fans have come to expect. The 27-year-old recorded 60 touches and completed 49 accurate passes, including six incisive balls into the final third as Japan controlled long spells of the match.

Without the ball, he was just as effective—making five key defensive contributions across his 68-minute outing, including two tackles, two clearances, one interception and a pair of recoveries, while coming out on top in three duels.

With momentum building ahead of the World Cup, Japan now turn their attention to their next friendly against Bolivia on Tuesday, kicking off at 10:15am (UK time). Tanaka will be pushing to feature once again as preparations continue.