Japan’s recent performance in the third round of Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup showcased a new and exhilarating system employed by coach Hajime Moriyasu. The Samurai Blue opened their Group C campaign with a resounding 7-0 thrashing of China, demonstrating a newfound ability to fit all their attacking talent together on the field. The new 3-4-2-1 formation seemed to be the key to success, allowing players like Kaoru Mitoma and Ritsu Doan to showcase their attacking prowess in unison.
The combination of Ritsu Doan and Takefusa Kubo on the right flank proved to be particularly effective against China. The duo constantly interchanged positions, confusing the opposition defense and creating numerous goal-scoring opportunities. Doan’s role as the right wing-back and Kubo’s withdrawn attacking position behind the main striker showcased Moriyasu’s tactical flexibility and ability to accommodate multiple star players in the same lineup.
Players like Takumi Minamino, Wataru Endō, and Kaoru Mitoma delivered standout performances during the match. Minamino, in particular, scored two quick goals in the second half to solidify Japan’s dominance on the field. Despite facing a relatively weaker opponent in China, the Samurai Blue’s star names combined effectively to put on a show for the fans in attendance.
Japan’s defensive unit, led by goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, displayed solidity and composure throughout the match. Despite missing the June qualifiers, Suzuki returned to the lineup and kept a clean sheet against China. The team’s defensive organization and confidence were evident, limiting China to only one shot on target and securing a comfortable victory.
The depth of the Japanese squad was highlighted by the presence of seasoned Europe-based players like Daichi Kamada and Takuma Asano on the bench. Additionally, young talents like Kota Takai were given opportunities to showcase their potential on the international stage. The management of the squad, with strategic substitutions and rest periods for key players, bodes well for Japan’s upcoming matches in the qualifiers.
As Japan prepares for their upcoming away game against Bahrain, the team’s impressive performance against China sets a high standard for future matches. The overall cohesiveness and attacking flair displayed by the Samurai Blue indicate a positive trajectory in their World Cup qualifying campaign. With the emergence of new tactical systems and the ability to integrate multiple star players effectively, Japan may have found the formula for success in fitting all their A-listers into one cohesive unit.