Wamma! Japan is the GIANT KILLER of modern football! In Qatar 2022, they beat GERMANY and SPAIN in the same group — and nobody could believe it! The Samurai Blue have a squad full of European-based players who know how to compete at the highest level. Takefusa Kubo is dazzling defenders at Real Sociedad, Kaoru Mitoma is terrorizing Premier League full-backs at Brighton, and this team has a system that can beat ANYONE on their day!
Manager: Hajime Moriyasu Key Players: Takefusa Kubo, Kaoru Mitoma, Wataru Endo FIFA Ranking: ~15th
The Squad
- Takefusa Kubo is a creative genius at Real Sociedad who can dribble past entire defences with his magical left foot
- Kaoru Mitoma's explosive pace and dribbling ability make him one of the most dangerous wingers in the Premier League
- Japan beat Germany AND Spain at the 2022 World Cup — they have proven they can defeat elite teams in tournament play
- Over 20 players based in top European leagues gives the squad incredible tactical awareness and experience
- Hajime Moriyasu's high-pressing, possession-based system has evolved into one of the most effective in international football
The Verdict
Japan is no longer a surprise package — everyone KNOWS they are dangerous! The Samurai Blue have the quality, the system, and the mentality to reach the quarter-finals or beyond. Their only weakness? Finishing big chances. If they become more clinical, they could genuinely shock the world AGAIN!
Tomorrow: #24 — Stay tuned for the next World Cup favourite!
