GUADALUPE, Mexico - With their record 4-0 demolition of Tunisia on Saturday, Japan avoided repeating their 2022 World Cup pitfall, but more significantly demonstrated a growth of character that underscored their emergence as serious contenders.
Their famous 2-1 comeback wins over powerhouses Germany and Spain four years ago in Qatar sandwiched a sluggish 1-0 defeat to Costa Rica, and concerns had persisted about their ability to break down World Cup-level opponents who are happy to cede possession.
But after grinding out a draw with the Netherlands on June 14, Hajime Moriyasu's players fine-tuned their approach, staying focused on themselves, to achieve their biggest World Cup victory margin against a Tunisian side under new management, allowing them just two shots, both off target.
"Japan are currently attracting a lot of attention from the world and we are in a position where we need to get results," said midfielder Daichi Kamada, who opened the scoring at Estadio Monterrey. "We're proving we can cut it on the world stage since the last World Cup."
"We took control of the game from the start and were doing what we wanted to...The team's atmosphere signaled that everyone knew the importance of this match."
Ayase Ueda, who had a night to remember with two goals and one assist, also hinted at a strong bond within the team, who have their sights set on the pinnacle and are determined not to let their guard down.
"Our team are aiming for the title, of course, and if I'm starting as the lone striker, I'm expected to score," Ueda said.
"We won't always have games like today and could find ourselves behind, as we did in the opener. It's important that we don't waver and keep playing on the same page, both tactically and individually."
Following the Netherlands' 5-1 demolition of Sweden earlier Saturday, Japan's hopes of topping Group F looked slim.
But with the ruthless Samurai Blue also winning by four goals, they have the chance to secure a round-of-32 return to the Mexican city where they have enjoyed immense local support.
Courtesy of a throng of Mexican fans backing the Samurai Blue, the electric "home" atmosphere inside the Estadio Monterrey rivaled that of some stadiums in Japan.
"There were many Mexico fans wearing their green shirts, but many cheering for Japan, and I'm sure the big chorus of 'Nippon!' gave courage to our players," Moriyasu said. "So long as Japan don't face Mexico, I'd be happy if Mexican people keep supporting Japan."
"This stadium was really the best...We had a pretournament camp of around a week in Monterrey too, and as we returned for this match, the Mexican people were warm and really welcoming. I want to thank the people of Mexico, Monterrey, and I feel this is a good place for us. Gracias."
