The Blue Samurai have impressed in Russia 2018, shrugging off a difficult build up to defeat Colombia 2-1 and come from behind to take a point in the 2-2 draw with Senegal.
It has been a remarkable run for coach Akira Nishino, who took over just two months before the FIFA World Cup, as he has moulded Japan into a potent side.
They will take on already-eliminated Poland with confidence and little pressure after their earlier performances.
While a point will be enough to seal qualification, Japan will advance even if they lose should Senegal defeat Colombia in the other Group H match.
Nishino, however, has a decision to make on how Japan approach the match.
His attacking style brought dividends against Colombia and Senegal but with a place in the Round of 16 now at stake, the former Gamba Osaka coach may opt for a more defensive approach against Poland.
Poland skipper Robert Lewandowski, meanwhile, has urged his team to salvage some pride after a sorry World Cup campaign saw them the first European side to be eliminated.
The Poles came to Russia with high hopes of reaching the knockout phase for the first time since 1986, but a 3-0 defeat to Colombia confirmed their early exit after an opening 2-1 reverse against Senegal.
"Right now we realise we didn't do well enough but that is something we cannot overcome," said the prolific Bayern Munich striker.
Did you know?
The teams who advance from Group H will face Group G's Belgium and England in what are set to be enticing Round of 16 clashes.
