Over the past two decades, Japanese and South Korean footballers have become increasingly prominent across Europe’s top leagues. Despite that progress, Japan have yet to advance beyond the Round of 16 at a FIFA World Cup, a hurdle head coach Hajime Moriyasu has previously described as a psychological barrier for the national team. However, expectations…
Japan will head into the FIFA World Cup 2026 as Asia’s highest-ranked nation after maintaining its position at the top of the continent in the latest FIFA World Ranking released on Thursday. Meanwhile, Iran enjoyed a rise in the standings, breaking into the global top 20 ahead of the tournament. The improvement provides a timely…
South Korea captain Son Heung-min has revealed that excitement is running high within the squad ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Czechia, admitting he has had to help keep his teammates focused. Speaking before Thursday’s match in Guadalajara, Son said the players are highly motivated and eager to begin their World Cup…
The South Korean men’s national team arrived at its FIFA World Cup base camp in Guadalajara, Mexico, on Friday, less than a week before opening its group-stage campaign. Led by head coach Hong Myung-bo, the squad checked into its team hotel in the afternoon and received a warm welcome from dozens of supporters. Fans and…
SAMURAI BLUE (Japan National Team) wrapped up their final home match ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ with a 1-0 win over Iceland in the KIRIN CHALLENGE CUP 2026 “Together We Are Stronger”, held at Tokyo’s National Stadium on Sunday 31 May. With Japan set to begin their World Cup campaign in the United…
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President has hailed Japan’s fifth U-17 title as a ‘definitive blueprint’ for success, following their thrilling 3-2 victory over China PR in the 2026 final held at the King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on Friday. The triumph marked a historic milestone for the East Asian giants, who…
