Germany fright Japan left the World Cup stage after the penalty drama in the round of 16 against Croatia with their heads held high.
“We won against Germany and Spain, former world champions. Japan can compete with the best,” said coach Hajime Moriyasu. “We ushered in a new era in Japanese football.”
His players should “keep that feeling and try to do better next time. We can’t become superheroes overnight. We have to improve step by step. But there’s no doubt that we’ve reached the level to make it to a world championship.”
The Blue Samurai made it into the last 16 for the second straight season in Qatar – something Japan had never done before. In the penalty shoot-out (1:3), however, three professionals gave up their nerves. “Did we break under the pressure? I don’t think so, the goalkeeper was great,” said Moriyasu, the final shootout was “about luck and training”.
The 54-year-old said he asked his players to decide for themselves who starts from the spot. “Those who dared were brave. I want to commend them for their courage and commitment.”
Moriyasu’s contract, who has been in office since 2018, ends with the World Cup. Association President Tashima Kohzo had announced in Qatar talks about filling the post for the period after the tournament, with Moriyasu being one of the candidates.