Bonn (Germany): Japan coach Zico faces a nervous wait ahead of his side's World Cup opener against Australia with his two first-choice strikers both carrying knocks.
Naohiro Takahara, who scored both goals in Japan's 2-2 draw with World Cup hosts Germany last week, is struggling with a knee injury while Atsushi Yanagisawa has a knee problem.
"You never know with these kinds of muscle injuries," Japan coach Zico said ahead of Monday's final tune-up against Malta.
"I don't think either of them will play a part against Malta as we want them fit to play against Australia."
Japan's team doctor Tsuguo Morikawa said he expected both players to be ready to face Australia in their Group F opener on June 12.
"Takahara's rehab has gone well and he should be fine," he said. "Yanagisawa's problem is also not too serious and there is no real swelling."
Zico was forced to replace defender Makoto Tanaka with Teruyuki Moniwa last week while right wing back Akira Kaji is still suffering from a badly bruised foot.
Japan, who reached the last 16 as co-hosts four years ago, are also drawn alongside Croatia and holders Brazil.
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