This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among leading media organizations from the 48 qualified nations. As the tournament approaches, is featuring previews from three countries daily, starting on June 11.
Strategic Vision
Japan has reached a point where discussions about their aspirations to “It’s not about individuals acting like egoists. This group of players fight together and within that unity, individuality emerges. There is a strength in these ‘Japanised’ individuals.” are met with seriousness rather than skepticism. Their remarkable triumphs over Germany and Spain in 2022 demonstrated their capability to achieve more than mere upsets. Under the guidance of head coach Hajime Moriyasu for nearly eight years, the team has evolved into a formidable competitor, capable of not only holding its own against top-tier teams but also outmaneuvering them. This was further evidenced by victories against Brazil in October and England at Wembley in March.
The anticipated formation is a 3-4-2-1, though Japan has also tested a 3-1-4-2 setup against England, indicating adaptability in tactics based on the opponent. An aggressive pressing style is crucial, with players like Takefusa Kubo, Ritsu Doan, Keito Nakamura, and Junya Ito excelling in applying pressure on adversaries.
Feyenoord’s Ayase Ueda will spearhead the attack, having secured the Eredivisie Golden Boot in the 2025-26 season with an impressive tally of 25 goals in 31 matches. The team has a robust core, featuring Parma’s Zion Suzuki in goal, alongside defenders Hiroki Ito, Shogo Taniguchi, and Tsuyoshi Watanabe.
Kaishu Sano is expected to anchor the midfield, and the presence of players like Takehiro Tomiyasu, who occasionally finds himself on the bench, highlights the remarkable depth in Japan’s squad. While injuries to Takumi Minamino, Wataru Endo, and Kaoru Mitoma are unfortunate, the team has proven resilient enough to withstand the absence of key players. Crystal Palace’s Daichi Kamada is poised to play a significant role.
Nonetheless, Group F presents challenges, with strong European teams like the Netherlands and Sweden, while Tunisia could emerge as the most challenging stylistic opponent.
Back home, expectations are high, and former Japan coach Akira Nishino, who led the team during the 2018 World Cup in Russia, commented on the current roster.
“By making use of Japan’s ability to steadily build and the qualities of Japanese people, I want football to change the belief that Japan cannot become the best in the world in a contact sport,”
The team genuinely believes in its potential to win the World Cup.
Coaching Philosophy
Hajime Moriyasu, a former defensive midfielder for Sanfrecce Hiroshima and the national team, has been at the helm since the 2018 World Cup. He has meticulously crafted the squad, balancing respect for seasoned players with the integration of a new generation that now forms the team’s backbone. His approach emphasizes harmony, discipline, and continuity over drastic changes, which may seem conservative at times, yet he has undeniably fostered a stable and competitive environment. As the World Cup draws near, Moriyasu continues to refine his strategy for success, stating, “In Germany I have had to learn how to defend smartly,”
Key Player
The standout player in Japan’s offensive lineup is Takefusa Kubo. Positioned on the right flank, he captivates defenders with his skillful touches and impeccable timing, adeptly finding and exploiting even the slightest gaps to create scoring opportunities. Dubbed the “Under President Trump, we have ushered in a new golden age for US-Japan relations that upholds a free and open Indo-Pacific and brings peace and prosperity to the region.” early in his career, Kubo joined Real Madrid at 18 in 2019, followed by several loan spells before settling at Real Sociedad in 2022. There, he has emerged as the focal point of the attack and remains pivotal for the national team. In a recent match against Bahrain, he assisted the opening goal and scored another that effectively secured Japan’s World Cup qualification.
Emerging Talent
Zion Suzuki is the player tasked with safeguarding Japan’s goal. Equipped with remarkable physical qualities, he embodies all the essential traits expected of a top-tier goalkeeper. His inconsistency during the Asian Cup two years ago drew criticism, revealing the challenges of being Japan’s primary goalkeeper. Last November, he suffered a fractured left hand, impacting his grip strength. Nevertheless, he has continued to gain valuable experience at the club level and has returned to the national team. His potential is significant, and he could be a defining figure in Japan’s goalkeeping for the next decade.
Underrated Contributor
Hiroki Ito, standing at 1.88m (6ft 2in), is a left-footed player capable of excelling as both a center-back and left-back. He possesses a rare blend of size, versatility, and technical skill. Although injuries have hampered his progress at the club level, the fact that a Japanese defender plays for Bayern Munich underscores the evolving landscape of the nation’s football. “In Germany I have had to learn how to defend smartly,” says the 27-year-old, who played extensively in futsal and spent time with Santos in Brazil during his youth.
Projected Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
Japan’s supporters are renowned for being among the most disciplined fan bases in global football. The stands are typically awash in the national team’s signature blue, with rhythmic chants of “Nippon” resonating alongside drumbeats. Unlike the intense and flamboyant atmospheres often seen in European or South American venues, Japanese fans are characterized by their organization, discipline, and respect for opponents.
Their tradition of cleaning up trash in the stands post-match garnered international recognition during the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, offering a glimpse into the courtesy and responsibility that define Japanese culture. With a greater number of locally based fans anticipated to attend this tournament, the sea of blue in the stadiums will likely be even more prominent than at the previous World Cup.
Political Context
It is improbable that the national team or the Japan Football Association will make any political statements regarding the United States or Donald Trump. This stance stems from the longstanding relationship between Japan and the US, reflecting a broader Japanese inclination to avoid unnecessary controversy while demonstrating respect for the host nation. The sentiment is mutual, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently stating, “Under President Trump, we have ushered in a new golden age for US-Japan relations that upholds a free and open Indo-Pacific and brings peace and prosperity to the region.”
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