Park Ji-sung: "Japan's improvement wasn't sudden" — Praises overwhelming performance that dominated Tunisia, "Felt like a friendly, not a World Cup... Over 100 players in Europe"

*This content was translated by AI.

Park Ji-sung (45), a commentator for JTBC, evaluated Japan's performance as "very impressive."

On the 21st (Korea time), Japan secured a decisive 4-0 victory over Tunisia in the second group stage match of the 2026 FIFA North American World Cup, Group F, held at Monterrey Stadium in Guadalupe, Mexico.

Having drawn 2-2 with the Netherlands in the first match, Japan's win today put them in second place in the group with one win and one draw (4 points). With this result, Japan needs only a draw against Sweden in the final group match to finish second and advance to the Round of 32.

In the first half, Japan took early control when Nakamura Keito's cutback from the left side of the penalty area was finished by Kamada Daichi with a sensational shot in the 4th minute. Then, in the 31st minute, during a counterattack, Ueda Ayase received a forward pass from Itakura Kō and scored with a sharp right-footed mid-range shot, widening the gap.

Japan did not loosen their offensive grip in the second half. In the 24th minute, Itō Junya, receiving a pass from Ueda, scored a decisive right-footed goal, crushing Tunisia's hopes of a comeback. In the 38th minute, Ueda completed his brace, sealing the 4-0 victory. Japan completely dominated Tunisia, allowing not even a single shot on target.

Park Ji-sung, who broadcast the match, also expressed deep admiration for Japan's overwhelming performance and growth trajectory. He stated, "I could clearly feel how much Japan has developed compared to the past. They played with the ease of a friendly match rather than a World Cup stage." He added, "It was quite impressive to see each player fully understand and execute their roles perfectly."

He also explained Japan's solid foundation. Park Ji-sung noted, "There are nearly 100 players currently playing in Europe. They didn't suddenly become good; they have continuously grown little by little to reach their current position." He continued, "Conversely, this means we too can achieve such growth. I hope the South Korean national team will show a more developed new look in the remaining matches."

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*This content was translated by AI.