A Japanese football legend has shared his belief that the Samurai Blue can achieve significant progress at the upcoming North/Central America World Cup, citing head coach Hajime Moriyasu’s unique experience leading the team for a second consecutive tournament.
Speaking at the “FIFA World Cup 2026 DAZN Kick-Off Conference” held in Tokyo on May 11, the former star argued that Moriyasu’s familiarity with the squad and the tournament environment gives Japan a crucial edge. “This is the manager’s second World Cup. It’s completely different from before,” the legend said. “The players have experienced the ‘everyday’ – the routines, the pressure, the expectations. That experience is invaluable.”
The comment comes as Japan prepares for what many consider their toughest group yet in the 2026 World Cup. The legendary figure emphasized that the team’s progress over the past cycle, including their impressive run in Qatar 2022, has built a foundation of confidence. “They know what it takes to compete at the highest level. They’ve been through the daily grind of international football, and that will pay off in North America,” he added.
Moriyasu, who led Japan to knockout-stage berths in 2022 and is now eyeing a historic quarterfinal or even better result, has been working on integrating younger talents with experienced core players. The Japanese public and football pundits alike are optimistic that the team can build on their recent successes.
While the path ahead is challenging, this endorsement from a Japanese football icon serves as a powerful vote of confidence for the Samurai Blue’s World Cup aspirations.
