[Saba Sports News] According to Japanese media, Japan national team head coach Hajime Moriyasu said in an interview that the squad has reached an all-time high and is the strongest lineup he has ever managed. Though Japan were drawn into a tough World Cup group with daunting qualification challenges, Moriyasu is fully prepared. He stated that Japan’s dream of lifting the World Cup trophy is now within reach, and he is full of anticipation for the players’ grit and passion.
Statistics show Japan have qualified for eight consecutive World Cup finals. The team aims to reach the quarter-finals for the first time in its history at this tournament. Japan will kick off its World Cup campaign against the Netherlands this Sunday. Team captain Wataru Endo pledged that the whole side will go all out to make new history for Japanese football.
Argentine star Lionel Messi also spoke highly of Japan while filming a new commercial. He noted that Japan are a tough opponent with a sophisticated and complete tactical system. They fight until the final whistle against any top side, making them extremely hard to beat.
In my view, Moriyasu’s remarks reflect strategic confidence and morale building rather than sheer arrogance. Even so, Japan stand very little chance of winning the title without favorable factors such as fitness, refereeing decisions and a kind draw. Reaching the quarter-finals and finally breaking the round-of-16 hoodoo would be a more realistic goal.