Japan suffered a further setback ahead of the Asian Cup when Gamba Osaka striker Ryuji Bando was ruled out of the finals with a hamstring injury.
Bando's place in the 23-man squad was taken by FC Tokyo youngster Masahiko Inoha on Wednesday just hours before coach Ivica Osim and Co. left for Hanoi.
The 21-year-old Inoha plays as a defensive midfielder but featured at center back in Japan's under-22 side during the recent Olympic qualifiers.