Japan took on The Three Lions on Tuesday evening (March 31st). Mitoma’s side came to Wembley thriving after a win over Scotland last Saturday.
Meanwhile, England were looking to make amends after a disappointing 1-1 draw against Uruguay.
During this fixture, the Samurai Blue controlled the pace whilst using a high press against England.
This tactic worked effectively when midfield players dropped deep for Tuchel’s side.
In the 23rd minute, Mitoma capitalised.
Cole Palmer was dispossessed in his own half by Kaoru, which sparked a sudden break.
After some fantastic passes, an inviting ball from Keito Nakamura found Mitoma, who slotted it home.
There were nervy moments for both sides through the remainder of this game.
For England, Elliot Anderson nearly equalised with a curling effort at the 34th minute.
The Samurai Blue also saw Ayase Ueda’s deflected effort rattle the bar before half-time.
By the 77th minute, Marcus Rashford had just registered England’s first shot on target.
Harry Maguire also saw his headed opportunity cleared in the 83rd minute, which was the home side’s last chance.
7,500 Japanese supporters cheered on their countrymen at the final whistle, with home fans concerned at the 1-0 result.
England had never lost to a side from Asia, and they looked flat throughout the clash.
Statistically, it has not been Mitoma’s best season.
In the 2024/25 campaign, Kaoru netted ten goals, getting four assists.
However, injury issues have sidelined him.
He had suffered an ankle injury in September 2025, keeping him out for over two months.
After that, minor issues have kept him from performing his best throughout the season.
But before the international break, Kaoru had impressed off the bench during Albion’s 2-1 win over Liverpool.
In total, Kaoru has made 130 appearances across all competitions for Brighton and Hove Albion.
The Albion faithful of five years has scored 26 goals and provided 21 assists.
Kaoru will hope to maintain his form as The Seagulls push for a European finish.
Just seven games remain, with Brighton and Hove Albion sitting in tenth position of the English top flight.
Tuchel still has questions to answer about England’s backline before the World Cup, after the Albion man caused real problems.