Japan playmaker Shunsuke Nakamura is expected to be fit for Sunday's Group F match with Croatia after recovering from a bruised thigh and a fever.
"Nakamura had some problems with his legs and yesterday he had a sudden fever but today his fever has gone down and he was OK (in practice)," coach Zico told reporters on Saturday.
"He should be OK for tomorrow."
Brazilian Zico also said wing back Akira Kaji was fit to play after he sustained a badly bruised ankle in a pre-tournament warm-up against Germany.
"Everybody thought Kaji would not come back," said Zico. "But he fought with determination, and after treatment, and that says something about his state of mind.
"It is good to see that with your players ahead of this match."
Japan conceded three late goals to lose 3-1 to Australia in their opening game.
Zico's side play champions Brazil in their last group match in Dortmund on June 22.
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