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Japan's Historic Journey to the 2026 World Cup: Key Players and Coach Insights

KVIA•Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 3:59 PM•CNN Newsource

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AI Summary

Japan's national football team has secured its spot in the 2026 World Cup, marking its continuous presence in the tournament since 1998. They became the first team to qualify through the qualifiers for this edition. Japan has participated in eight World Cups, reaching the Round of 16 four times, with notable victories against former champions like Spain and Germany in 2022. Coach Hajime Moriyasu, who has led the team since 2018, will continue to guide the squad, making him the first coach in Japan's history to receive a contract renewal. Key players include Wataru Endo from Liverpool and Takefusa Kubo from Real Sociedad, although the team will be without Kaoru Mitoma due to injury.

Key Details: • Japan has qualified for the World Cup since 1998, with eight participations total. • Hajime Moriyasu is the first coach in Japan's history to be renewed after a World Cup. • Wataru Endo recently returned from an ankle injury and played 45 minutes in a friendly. • Kaoru Mitoma will miss the World Cup due to injury.

football world-cup japan hajime-moriyasu wataru-endo

People & Organizations

Kaoru MitomaWataru EndoTakefusa KuboHajime Moriyasu

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