Japan will play Spain on Thursday in its final group-stage match in the soccer World Cup in Qatar. Japan needs at least a draw to stand any chance of advancing to the knockout stage.

Japan is currently in second-place in Group E, with 3 points, following a win against Germany and a loss to Costa Rica. Japan, ranked 24th in the world, will face the powerhouse Spain, ranked 7th. The match kicks off at 10 p.m., Qatar local time.

Earlier on Thursday, Japanese supporters were seen checking out the venue of the match in Doha. A man who lives in Dubai was visiting with his son, and said he hopes Japan will win and advance to the last 16.

A lot of Japanese supporters, wearing Team Japan's blue uniforms, and holding national flags, were also seen inside a market in central Doha.

A pair of supporters said Spain has enormous attacking power but Japan also has capable players. The pair added they believe Japan will beat Spain 2-1.

If Japan wins, the team will be able to advance to the knockout stage, for the second consecutive tournament.
If Japan loses, it will be eliminated from the World Cup.

If the match ends in a draw, Japan's fate will be decided by the outcome of a match between Germany and Costa Rica, which also kicks off at 10 p.m. on Thursday.