Japan kicked a surprise in the World Cup in Qatar.

(File photo, Associated Press)

[Sports Center/Comprehensive Report] "Blue Samurai" Japan played a surprise in the World Cup in Qatar. Supervisor Mori Yasuichi, who led the team to the top 16, was renewed and will continue to compete in the next World Cup. I feel very honored to be the head coach of the Japanese team."

Japan miraculously defeated strong enemies Germany and Spain in the group stage and broke into the knockout round as the leader of the group. In the round of 16, they also fought with Croatia in 120 minutes to draw 1:1, but finally lost in the PK battle and missed the team history. The unprecedented goal of the top 8 has become the first team in Asia to break into the top 16 for two consecutive years, writing history.

Please read on...

Since Japan participated in the World Cup for the first time in 1998, the head coach will be changed after each World Cup. Moriyasu became the first coach in team history to be renewed after the World Cup.

Mori Hoichi.

(Associated Press)

Moriyasu's tenure will last until the next World Cup. He said at the press conference: "I am very honored to be able to serve as the head coach of the Japanese national team again. Facing this arduous mission, I think of the responsibilities I bear. full of energy.”

The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and the number of participating teams will also be expanded from 32 to 48. Japan will face more challenges in its goal of reaching the top 8. Mori Yasuichi said: "The next road will definitely be It is very difficult, but I will embrace every challenge with the belief that nothing is impossible in Japan.”

Mori Yasuichi's first game after contract renewal will be the Kirin Cup to be held in Japan on March 23 next year.

related news