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Japan Vows Victory Against Netherlands in World Cup Qualifier Opener
๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท South Korea /Sports

Japan Vows Victory Against Netherlands in World Cup Qualifier Opener

From Chosun Ilbo · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources New plan
  • Japan's national football team is preparing for their first match in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against the Netherlands.
  • Coach Hajime Moriyasu emphasized the team's determination to win, stating they are not just there to enjoy the tournament.
  • The team is reportedly showing strong resolve and preparing for a potential upset against the favored Dutch side.

Japan's national football team is entering their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with a fierce determination to succeed. Facing the formidable 'Oranje' Netherlands in their first Group F game, coach Hajime Moriyasu has instilled a mindset focused squarely on victory.

Moriyasu stressed that the team's objective extends beyond mere participation. "We are not here to enjoy ourselves, we are here to win," he declared, underscoring the squad's ambition to achieve their ultimate goal of winning the World Cup.

The Japanese players are reportedly displaying intense resolve and are preparing to challenge expectations. Despite the Netherlands being considered a stronger opponent, Japan is gearing up for a potential upset, fueled by their "winning mentality" and ambition.

The match is scheduled to take place in Dallas, Texas, highlighting the global nature of the tournament and the diverse challenges teams face in qualifying.

We are not here to enjoy ourselves, we are here to win.

โ€” Hajime MoriyasuExpressing the Japanese team's determined mindset ahead of their World Cup qualifier against the Netherlands.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Chosun Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.