Japan Can 'Rival with the Best,' Claims Hajime Moriyasu Ahead of World Cup 2026

The Japanese team has reached a level that enables them to 'compete with the top nations,' according to their coach, Hajime Moriyasu, before facing Brazil in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, Monday in Houston.

Ahead of the 'Samurai Blue's' most promising World Cup campaign in history, Japan's coach acknowledged that "we didn't have enough players with experience abroad, which was a disadvantage" in the past, but now 'a lot of players are developing across the world, in Europe or Latin America.'

This significant shift has helped the team to grow, with Hajime Moriyasu praising their progress, 'We've reached a level that enables us to compete with the top nations, to keep up with their rhythm and physical strength.'

The Japanese team has undergone significant transformations, with a large majority of its international players participating in European leagues, particularly in the UK, Spain, and Germany.

Japan has never won a knockout match in the World Cup, but their coach remains optimistic, stating that 'we can change history' as an example of their victory over Brazil in an October friendly match.

"Les 'Samouraïs bleus' n'avaient jamais battu la Seleção avant d'y parvenir en octobre dernier en match amical, un exemple qui prouve que ‘nous pouvons changer l'histoire’, a dit Hajime Moriyasu

‘nous mettrons toute notre énergie pour pouvoir aller chercher cette victoire’.

The 2026 World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, featuring 48 teams and 16 state-of-the-art stadiums.

The tournament promises to be an exciting and challenging experience for Japan, as they look to take their place among the top nations in the world.

Hajime Moriyasu's leadership and the team's determination will be crucial in their quest for success in the 2026 World Cup.