For a while, it looked as if Asia’s biggest World Cup result was on and Japan were going to beat Brazil. A team full of energy, skill and verve looked superior to the South Americans and were sending out a statement to the rest of the world and also back home that a new dawn was indeed here. The second half wasn’t quite so good. The energy levels could not be sustained, the Samurai Blue dropped too deep and eventually they were undone in the 96th minute to lose 2-1 in this last-32 clash. Had four of the team’s best players – Kaoru Mitoma, Wataru Endo, Takumi Minamino and Takefusa Kubo – been available then it could have ended differently. In the end, Brazil’s strength in depth was a little stronger.
More than usual, however, there was support from elsewhere in Asia, with fans desperate for some continental pride. “We are representing Asia. I know that other Asian teams are not as successful,” the Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu said before kick-off. “I would like us to be able to encourage other Asian teams as well, and we would like to be their hope.”
