The Japanese national team emerged as a formidable force in international football after an impressive performance at the 2022 World Cup. The Blue Samurai managed to defeat powerhouses like Germany and Spain. This success is a testament to the Japanese football federation's effective management, which has been in place since 1992. Their long-term plan ambitiously aims for Japan to win the World Cup by 2092, a goal that seems increasingly attainable given the rising quality and European recognition of Japanese football.
What is the story behind the Japanese national team's journey and their aspirations for a World Cup title?
The Japanese national team made headlines at the 2022 World Cup, topping Group E in a performance that brought immense pride to their country. This was their first time winning a World Cup group in two decades, reminiscent of their success when they co-hosted the 2002 World Cup. Their impressive victories over strong teams highlighted their prowess.
However, some viewed Japan's victory with controversy, particularly during the match against Spain. Japan's second goal was disputed, with claims that the ball had gone out of play. Analysts like Gary Neville and Graeme Souness criticized the refereeing decisions, arguing that FIFA should have provided clearer evidence. Despite the controversy, Japan's coach, Hajime Moriyasu, accepted the referee's decision with grace.
New images released shows controversial Japan goal vs Spain was RIGHT to stand. pic.twitter.com/RvNo89aUP7
— SPORTbible (@sportbible) December 2, 2022
While the debate over the controversial goal continues, it is widely acknowledged that the Japanese national team demonstrated remarkable discipline throughout the tournament.
The achievements of the Japanese national team in recent World Cups deserve high praise. They demonstrated remarkable discipline, tactical structure, and brilliant execution. Their performances in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups deserve special recognition, as they advanced past the group stage in both tournaments, a historic feat given that they had never qualified in the previous six editions.
The Japanese team began to show significant progress in the 2018 World Cup, finishing as runners-up in Group H ahead of Senegal. Despite a mixed record of one win, one draw, and one loss, they avenged their 4-1 defeat to Colombia from the 2014 World Cup by defeating them in 2018. Their journey was notable, as they reached the Round of 16, where they faced Belgium. In a dramatic match, Japan took a two-goal lead, but Belgium staged a stunning comeback to win 3-2 with a last-minute goal. Akira Nishino, Japan's coach at the time, was disappointed, believing his team had the potential to advance further.
Japan vs Belgium World Cup 2018 Qualifier; Exciting Match💥🔥😻 pic.twitter.com/H9BsD3KAsj
— Rasel Mahomud (@mrasel4320) July 5, 2023
"We have shown our best ability, but our main target remains to qualify for the next round," Nishino remarked. Despite the setback, one of Japan's players, Makoto Hasebe, praised the team's performance. He acknowledged the difficulty of the match but expressed pride in their efforts, stating that the Japanese national team played very well and deserved recognition.
The Japanese national team's journey continued positively in the 2022 World Cup, reinforcing their growing reputation on the global stage. Their resilience and tactical acumen have laid a strong foundation for future success, reflecting the federation's long-term vision and the players' unwavering dedication.
The development of the Japanese national team is closely tied to the pivotal role of the Japan Football Association (JFA). Since 1992, the JFA has been implementing a comprehensive plan known as the J.League Hundred Years Vision, with the ambitious goal of making Japan a major force in world football. This vision includes the aspiration of leading the Japanese national team to a World Cup title by 2092.
In addition to this long-term plan, the JFA launched a new initiative in 2016 called Project DNA, aimed at nurturing local soccer talent. The project focuses on developing players who can compete at the global level by emphasizing not only speed but also physical strength, mental toughness, and football intelligence. From a young age, players are taught fundamental ball control techniques before progressing to advanced game tactics. This structured approach has resulted in many Japanese players excelling in dribbling and on-field mentality.
Since its inception in 1992, Japan's football system has seen significant progress. Despite experiencing ups and downs, the J.League has grown rapidly over nearly three decades and is now considered one of the best leagues in Asia, second only to the Saudi Pro League. Japan’s success is largely due to their focus on developing local talent and their minimal reliance on foreign players, unlike leagues such as the Saudi Pro League which depend heavily on foreign imports.
The foundation of the J.League dates back to 1989 when the JFA established the Competition Making Committee. This committee was responsible for setting the criteria that clubs needed to meet to join the J.League, including standards for stadiums, sponsors, and club locations. By 1993, the JFA successfully launched the league with 10 qualifying teams. To ensure the league's success, the JFA conducted comparative studies in Europe and Asia, learning from the management systems of football leagues in countries like Indonesia.
Overall, the JFA's strategic initiatives and structured development programs have played a crucial role in elevating the status of Japanese football, paving the way for the national team’s impressive performances on the world stage.
The JFA's decision to enhance the quality of the J-League through rigorous club due diligence has yielded positive results. Currently, the J1-League comprises 18 clubs, the J2-League has 22 clubs, and the J3-League includes 20 clubs. Japan's commitment to becoming a football powerhouse is evident, with many of its players now competing in European leagues.
Japan’s journey in exporting football talent began in 1977 with Yasuhiko Okudera, who played for FC Koln, becoming the first Japanese player in a European league. Initially, the number of Japanese players abroad was minimal, with only five playing overseas at one point. However, since 2014, the number has steadily increased, reaching 12 players. This trend continued, and by the 2022 World Cup, 19 Japanese national team members were competing in European clubs.
Noteworthy Japanese players making a mark in Europe include Takehiro Tomiyasu, a regular starter for Mikel Arteta at Arsenal, and Kaoru Mitoma, who has dazzled in the Premier League with his dynamic play. Wataru Endo recently joined Liverpool, and Takumi Minamino has rediscovered his form at AS Monaco after a challenging period at Liverpool.
Other standout players include Takefusa Kubo and Kyogo Furuhashi. Kubo, although not part of the 2022 World Cup squad, has impressed with Real Sociedad, scoring three goals. Furuhashi, the top scorer in the Scottish League last season, earned high praise from his former Celtic coach, Ange Postecoglou, for his relentless effort and goal-scoring prowess in crucial matches.
With its ambitious vision and strategic programs, Japan is well on its way to realizing its dream of becoming a new giant in world football. The sustained development of local leagues and the increasing presence of Japanese players in top European competitions are strong indicators of this progress. The key question remains: can Japan achieve its ultimate goal and become a dominant force in global football?
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