Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu says his team’s strong sense of unity could be the key to reaching the World Cup round of 16 as they prepare to face Brazil in Houston today.
Regarded by many as one of the tournament’s potential surprise packages, Japan advanced from the group stage as runners-up behind the Netherlands, recording one victory and two draws.
Speaking before the knockout-stage clash against the five-time world champions, Moriyasu highlighted the commitment and togetherness within his squad.
“All the players will do what they can for the team and contribute,” he said. “The team is united and that feeling is getting even stronger now.”
Japan will once again be without winger Takefusa Kubo, who suffered a knee injury during the 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in their opening World Cup match.
Although Japan defeated Brazil 3-2 in a friendly at home last October, Moriyasu expects a much tougher challenge from Carlo Ancelotti’s side this time around.
He believes Brazil will be especially determined after that defeat.
“It is a different team and they will be more motivated to play against us, they will be intent on beating us,” he said.
“We feel the match will be very intense,” he added. “We have a chance and it will be tough… we will be at full force.”
Japan have never progressed beyond the round of 16 at a World Cup, while Brazil are pursuing a record-extending sixth world title.
Brazil may also benefit from an extra day of recovery, having completed their group-stage campaign one day earlier than Japan.
Moriyasu acknowledged that this gives his side a slight disadvantage but insisted it should not be used as an excuse.
The winner of the match will advance to face either Norway or Côte d’Ivoire in the next round.
At the previous World Cup, Japan shocked both Germany and Spain during the group stage before being eliminated by Croatia in a penalty shootout in the round of 16.
Brazil’s tournament also ended against Croatia, who knocked them out in the quarter-finals on penalties.
