Akira Kaji is set to return to the Japan starting line-up for Sunday's crucial Group F match against Croatia.

The winger sat out Japan's World Cup opener against Australia after suffering an ankle injury when he was on the wrong end of a bad tackle from Bastian Schweinsteiger during a pre-tournament friendly against Germany.

Blue Samurai coach Zico said: "Everybody thought Kaji would not come back. But he fought with determination and that says something about his state of mind.

"It is good to see that with your players ahead of this match."

Japan lost 3-1 to the Socceroos after conceding three late goals, while Croatia were defeated 1-0 by Brazil in their first game at the finals, meaning neither side can afford to lose in Nuremberg.