The Japan national soccer team is gearing up for a crucial World Cup qualifying match against Bahrain on March 20, 2025, at Saitama Stadium. Under the guidance of head coach Hajime Moriyasu, the team aims to qualify for the World Cup faster than ever, marking their eighth consecutive appearance.
As team members gathered for training in Chiba City on March 18, the atmosphere was filled with anticipation. The match is significant; a win or even a draw could secure Japan's spot in the tournament, depending on other match results. The squad includes key player Takefusa Kubo, now 23 years old and playing for Real Sociedad, who is expected to lead the attack this time.
Kubo has evolved notably, having scored seven goals this season, five of which were in the league. This consistency followed a rough start to his career in Spain, where he struggled to find the net during his initial three seasons in La Liga, scoring just six during that time. His evolution is attributed in part to the guidance of former Japan international forward Yuito Sato, who directly instructed him in Chiba just before Kubo joined Real Sociedad in the summer of 2022.
Yamamoto Masakuni, a technical committee member of the Japan Football Association, credited Sato with helping Kubo transform his game. He remarked, "It's thanks to Yuito." This mentorship has paid off significantly; Kubo's current form has captured the interest of numerous big clubs, including Liverpool and Arsenal, demonstrating the impact of strategic guidance on his performance.
with Moriyasu noting, "Honestly, my impression is that they are strong." The team dynamics emphasize collective effort over individual prowess, a significant shift for Kubo, who previously harbored a more self-centered mentality. The young star expressed, "What matters most is that the team wins," reflecting his maturity and commitment to the collective goal of succeeding in the World Cup.
The anticipation surrounding Kubo's performance in the Bahrain match is palpable, and with the team's current standing of five wins and one draw, they lead their group and are in a strong position to qualify. Should Japan succeed in this match, they will achieve one of the fastest qualifications in World Cup history.
Moriyasu's strategy has placed emphasis on teamwork, psychology, and tactical awareness, as he prepares for what could be a historic victory for Japanese soccer. The head coach expressed confidence in his squad, hinting at the starting lineup that includes Minamino and Kamada as shadows, with Endo and Tanaka in central midfield, and a back three composed of Ito Hiroki, Itakura, and Taniguchi, showcasing a blend of experience and youth.
The road to this qualification has not been without its challenges. Kubo recalled the disappointment of watching the World Cup qualifying match against Australia from the bench in 2022, where he couldn't play due to injury. The frustration from that experience has fueled his desire to not only participate but to excel in the upcoming games.
The Japan team is embracing the pressure of the upcoming match against Bahrain amidst a backdrop of heightened excitement for soccer in the country, coinciding with the opening of MLB season, spotlighting stars like Shohei Ohtani in America. Kubo noted, “To be able to see the successes of other sports in Japan is fantastic,” while maintaining focus on his own contributions to the national team’s success.
As Japan prepares to step onto the field to possibly secure their place in the World Cup, the hopes of the nation rest upon them. The focus remains clear: a win, or even a draw, could see them through to their eighth consecutive World Cup, underscoring the importance of this match not just for the players but for all of Japan.
