*This content was translated by AI.
Japanese national team defender Takehiro Tomiyasu (28, Ajax) acknowledged the gap in ability against Brazil.
Japan's "Sports Hochi" reported on the 30th Tomiyasu's interview filled with regret and tears immediately after the loss to Brazil.
Led by coach Hajime Moriyasu, Japan took an early lead through a goal by Kaishu Sano in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 16 match against Brazil held at Houston Stadium in Texas, USA, but conceded consecutive goals to Casemiro and Gabriel Martinelli in the second half, ultimately losing 1-2.
As a result, Japan failed to advance past the Round of 16 for the fifth consecutive time, from the 2002 Korea-Japan tournament through the 2010 South Africa, 2018 Russia, 2022 Qatar, and this tournament.
Tomiyasu, who started at right center back and held Brazilian striker Vinicius Junior scoreless, said, "It ended in an unbelievable way," expressing his regret over the loss.
He coldly assessed Japan's situation of focusing entirely on defense throughout the second half. Japan managed only one shot in the second half, and even that was not a shot on target. Tomiyasu stated, "I deeply felt that Japan is not yet at a level to compete with strong teams."
He continued, "Without actively controlling the ball, we cannot compete on equal terms. Knowing this, we fought to win. We are gradually advancing, but we are still far from being able to defeat strong teams on the main stage," offering a cold evaluation of Japan's performance.
He also acknowledged the inability to respond to Brazil's tactical changes in the second half. Tomiyasu pointed out, "There were more issues in attack than defense. There was a tendency to stop play after winning the ball." He further added, "We must increase the time we possess the ball in the opponent's half to reduce the probability of conceding goals. Everyone knows this, but it is not an easy task," and blamed himself.
Tomiyasu, who stepped onto the World Cup stage after overcoming a long injury lasting over two years, repeatedly expressed his regret. He said, "I started in the most important Round of 16 match, but I am frustrated for not being able to repay expectations on the field."
While doing so, he shed tears while looking forward to four years later. Tomiyasu vowed, "I received the support of many people. Playing football is by no means a given. I am grateful to Coach Moriyasu and everyone who supported me. I will whip myself even harder to repay my debt on the pitch."
On this day, Japan aimed for an upset by scoring the first goal against the powerhouse Brazil. In the 30th minute of the first half, Kaishu Sano intercepted a pass and scored the opening goal with a surprise long-range shot during a counterattack.
However, they could not overcome Brazil's fierce counterattack in the second half. After Brazil consistently pressured the goal, Casemiro equalized with a header in the 11th minute of the second half. Then, in the 5th minute of stoppage time, Martinelli scored a dramatic winning goal. Ultimately, Brazil secured a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory, bringing Japan's challenge to an end.
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*This content was translated by AI.
