- 14 Mar 2002
- 21,057
- 18,913
Japan's World Cup campaign begins on 14 June with a Group F match against the Netherlands at Dallas Stadium in Texas, a meeting between two ambitious sides featuring players from some of Europe's top leagues.
The Samurai Blue (サムライブルー) arrive without injured winger Mitoma Kaoru, one of the team's most recognisable stars. Even so, the squad still includes considerable attacking and technical quality. Several Japanese players are also familiar with Dutch football through their club careers. Defender Itakura Kō and striker Ueda Ayase currently play in the Netherlands, while Watanabe Tsuyoshi and Ogawa Kōki have also spent time in the Eredivisie. Their experience could give Japan some insight into the Dutch style of play.
Much of the attention will fall on Kubo Takefusa. The Real Sociedad playmaker has developed into one of Asia's leading attacking players, known for his close control, creativity and vision. With Mitoma unavailable, Kubo is expected to carry much of Japan's attacking burden and may prove key if Japan are to break down the Dutch defence.
The Samurai Blue (サムライブルー) arrive without injured winger Mitoma Kaoru, one of the team's most recognisable stars. Even so, the squad still includes considerable attacking and technical quality. Several Japanese players are also familiar with Dutch football through their club careers. Defender Itakura Kō and striker Ueda Ayase currently play in the Netherlands, while Watanabe Tsuyoshi and Ogawa Kōki have also spent time in the Eredivisie. Their experience could give Japan some insight into the Dutch style of play.
Much of the attention will fall on Kubo Takefusa. The Real Sociedad playmaker has developed into one of Asia's leading attacking players, known for his close control, creativity and vision. With Mitoma unavailable, Kubo is expected to carry much of Japan's attacking burden and may prove key if Japan are to break down the Dutch defence.