Japan head to Wembley ready to show they’re the real deal before World Cup | John Duerden
Japan, having secured a 1‑0 win over Scotland in Glasgow, will travel to Wembley to test themselves against England ahead of the World Cup. Coach Hajime Moriyasu and players like Kaoru Mitoma are optimistic, but injuries and a strong English squad pose challenges.
Japan’s national side, the Samurai Blue, have just returned from a narrow 1‑0 victory over Scotland in Glasgow. The win, which came after a dramatic 3‑2 triumph over Brazil in October, has set the stage for a high‑profile friendly at Wembley against England. The match is more than a warm‑up; it is a statement that Japan is ready to compete with Europe’s elite as the World Cup approaches.
From Seoul to Saitama: A Historical Context
Japan’s football journey has come a long way since the 1990s. The nation’s first World Cup appearance in 1998 saw a 1‑0 loss to the United States, and subsequent tournaments were marked by early exits. By 2018, under coach Hajime Moriyasu, Japan had become a regular in the knockout stages, yet the quarter‑finals remained elusive. The 2022 World Cup in Qatar was a turning point: Japan finished the group stage with 6 points and advanced to the last 16 for the first time in 24 years, before falling to Croatia.
In contrast, South Korea’s 2002 World Cup run, which culminated in a semi‑final appearance, was highlighted by a 4‑1 win over Scotland in Busan and a 1‑1 draw against England on Jeju Island. Those matches gave the Taegeuk Warriors confidence and a taste of success on the global stage. Japan, now more mature and experienced, is poised to follow a similar path.
Scotland Victory: A Confidence Builder
The 1‑0 win in Glasgow was secured by Junya Ito’s late strike. The match was played by a squad that had rotated many starters, giving fringe players a chance to prove themselves. Kaoru Mitoma, who was substituted on at halftime, highlighted the team’s composure: “We opened up and created many chances, which was good because we won.” He added that a higher scoreline would have been preferable, but the result was a solid indicator of the squad’s readiness.
Japan’s record against European opponents has improved under Moriyasu. Of the seven European tests since 2018, the team has won six and drawn one. This record, combined with a 54‑goal haul in qualification and only three conceded, underscores Japan’s growing confidence on the international stage.
Preparing for England: Tactical and Personnel Challenges
England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, will field a strong side at Wembley. The English team will likely include players who have been part of recent domestic and international successes, making the fixture a stern test for Japan. The Japanese squad faces several injury concerns: captain Wataru Endo is recovering from ankle surgery, while Takumi Minamino and Takefusa Kubo are still regaining fitness after ACL injuries.
Despite these setbacks, Japan’s depth is evident. Substitutes who impressed in the Scotland game—Daichi Kamada, Ayase Ueda, and Mitoma—are set to start against England. The coaching staff believes that the team’s ability to adapt and maintain control will be crucial against a side that is known for its physicality and tactical flexibility.
What’s at Stake for Japan?
Beyond a friendly win, the match serves as a benchmark for Japan’s readiness to compete against top European teams. The squad’s ambition is clear: reach the quarter‑finals of the upcoming World Cup. Moriyasu has stated that the team now has the quality to achieve that goal. A victory over England would not only boost morale but also validate the progress Japan has made over the past decade.
For the players, the game offers an opportunity to test themselves against familiar defenders and to gauge the effectiveness of their recent tactical adjustments. Mitoma, for instance, has expressed a desire to be more aggressive in defense and to maximize the quality of chances created in attack.
Ultimately, the outcome of the Wembley fixture will influence Japan’s preparation strategy for the World Cup group stage, where they will face the Netherlands, Tunisia, and the winner of the Sweden‑Poland playoff. A strong performance against England will reinforce confidence and provide valuable insights into areas that require further refinement.
Looking Ahead: The Road to the World Cup
Japan’s journey to the World Cup has been marked by steady improvement and resilience. From the early days of the J.League to the current era of international success, the nation’s football culture has evolved. The upcoming match against England is a critical step in that evolution, offering a chance to prove that Japan can compete with the world’s best.
As the team heads to Wembley, the focus will be on executing a game plan that balances possession, defensive solidity, and attacking creativity. If Japan can replicate the composure shown in Glasgow and adapt to the challenges posed by England, they will enter the World Cup with a renewed sense of purpose and confidence.
Why it matters
The match against England is a pivotal test for Japan’s World Cup ambitions, offering insight into how the team performs against top European opposition and setting the tone for their campaign.
Key points
- Japan won 1‑0 over Scotland in Glasgow, boosting confidence
- Injuries to key players like Endo, Minamino, and Kubo pose challenges
- Japan’s record against Europe has improved under Moriyasu
- The Wembley fixture is a critical test before the World Cup
- Japan aims to reach the quarter‑finals in Qatar
- Depth and adaptability will be key against England
Frequently asked questions
What was the result of Japan’s match against Scotland?
Japan won 1‑0, with Junya Ito scoring the decisive goal.
Which Japanese players are injured before the England game?
Captain Wataru Endo (ankle surgery), Takumi Minamino (ACL injury), and Takefusa Kubo (injury recovery).
Who will start for Japan against England?
Daichi Kamada, Ayase Ueda, and Kaoru Mitoma are expected to start.
What are Japan’s goals for the upcoming World Cup?
To reach the quarter‑finals and prove they can compete with Europe’s best.
