Tokyo International News Agency

The Japan Football Association (JFA) has announced that Go Oiwa, currently head coach of the U-21 Japan national team, will become the next manager of the Japan men's national football team (SAMURAI BLUE). Current manager Hajime Moriyasu will remain at the helm through the AFC Asian Cup 2027 in Saudi Arabia in January–February 2027, with the team transitioning to Oiwa's leadership in March 2027. Oiwa is slated to serve a dual role, taking charge of the senior national team aiming for the 2030 FIFA World Cup while also leading the squad targeting the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Having previously guided Kashima Antlers to an AFC Champions League (ACL) title and achieved strong results with youth national teams, high expectations surround his ability to facilitate a smooth generational turnover from the youth ranks. The advance announcement of this unusual transition has prompted varied reactions online. Some fans welcomed the move, calling it an ideal transition that leverages the...

On June 27, 2026, widespread reports emerged that the Japan Football Association (JFA) is considering retaining manager Hajime Moriyasu, sparking intense discussion on social media. The move reflects high praise for his leadership in guiding the Samurai Blue to consecutive World Cup knockout stages, even under challenging circumstances such as the absence of key players like Kaoru Mitoma. If officially finalized, it would mark an unprecedented milestone in Japanese soccer history: a record-breaking tenure spanning three consecutive World Cups over 12 years. In response to the news, soccer fans have expressed a mix of high expectations and deep-seated concerns. Praise for "Poichi": Trust Earned Through Proven Results Social media saw a wave of supportive comments welcoming the potential extension. Pointing to his track record of securing a spot in the round of 16 despite a depleted squad, many fans argued that "given these results and his international reputation, an exte...

On June 21, local time, the Japan national team will face Tunisia in their second group stage match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 at Monterrey Stadium in Mexico. Ahead of the kickoff, the atmosphere at the venue and across social media is reaching a fever pitch as fans marvel at the dramatic setting for this crucial showdown. Monterrey, which translates to 'King's Mountain' in Spanish, lives up to its name. The stadium offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, prompting a flood of praise on social media with fans calling the scenery 'absolutely stunning' and 'incredibly cool.' However, while the stadium is a state-of-the-art facility, the conditions on the pitch will be grueling. Despite the late 10:00 PM kickoff, temperatures are hovering around 27°C (80°F) with humidity exceeding 80%, presenting a punishing physical test for the players. On the ground, supporters have shared surprising reports of an overwhelmingly pro-Japan crowd. 'More than...