"I'm also a soccer-loving uncle": Japanese coach's unexpected charm... waiting for Kane and shyly asking for a selfie, "smile shot" becomes a hot topic

*This content was translated by AI.

The unexpected appearance of Hajime Moriyasu (58), head coach of the Japanese national soccer team, is drawing attention. In a scene that seemed to return him to the mindset of a single soccer fan, a moment captured in a selfie with England's star striker Harry Kane (33, Bayern Munich) has been released.

Japanese media outlet Nikkan Sports reported on the 19th (Korea time) that "a video of Coach Moriyasu taking a selfie with Kane, while preparing for the second match of Group F in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has gone viral on social media." The media introduced Coach Moriyasu's appearance as "the moment he returned to being an uncle who loves soccer."

Previously, Japanese broadcaster NHK released a related video. In the video, Coach Moriyasu approached Kane, handed him his smartphone, and asked to take a photo together. Coach Moriyasu and Kane stood close, looked at the camera, and smiled brightly. After the photo was taken, Coach Moriyasu said, "You're really amazing," and smiled with satisfaction.

Coach Moriyasu then added, "It seems my selfie with Kane was caught on camera. I might look like an immature coach," speaking with a hint of embarrassment.

However, fans' reactions were enthusiastic. They were impressed by Coach Moriyasu's human side. It was a surprising moment that revealed the pure side of someone who loves soccer itself, rather than the image of a charismatic and authoritative commander.

According to reports, soccer fans responded with comments such as, "Kane must have been flustered. The national team coach waited and asked for a selfie," "It's cute and funny to see Coach Moriyasu happily taking a photo with Kane," and "He returned to being just an uncle who loves soccer."

In this tournament, Japan was drawn into Group F along with the Netherlands, Sweden, and Tunisia. Facing formidable opponents, Japan drew 2-2 with the Netherlands in the first match. It was a decent result, as they secured points against a title contender and scored a dramatic equalizer late in the second half while trailing 1-2.

However, to advance from the group stage, Japan must win the next match. Japan will face Tunisia in the Group F second match on the 21st at 1 p.m. at Estadio Monterrey in Guadalupe, Mexico. Tunisia suffered a heavy 1-5 defeat to Sweden in the first match and currently sits at the bottom of the group.

Coincidentally, the match between Japan and Tunisia marks the 1st,000th game in World Cup history. The World Cup, first held in Uruguay in 1930, has created countless thrilling matches, legends, and stories since the opening match between France and Mexico. Now, 96 years later, this North American World Cup is setting a new milestone with the "1,000th kickoff."

FIFA also highlighted this match as special. Through its official social media, it introduced the Japan-Tunisia match, stating, "A historic showdown awaits."

The referee for the Japan-Tunisia match will be Istvan Kovacs. Referee Kovacs is a well-known official who also officiated the 2024-2025 UEFA Champions League final between Paris Saint-Germain (France) and Inter Milan (Italy).

The officiating team, including referee Kovacs, will wear special referee uniforms for this match. The Adidas logo and three stripes will be decorated in gold, and a gold patch signifying the "1,000th match" will also be attached.

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*This content was translated by AI.