Japan return home, 700 fans cheer at Haneda... Moriyasu and Itakura make appearance
Japan's World Cup squad return home after exiting at the last 16 in 2026. Around 700 fans gathered at Haneda Airport to give Moriyasu, captain Itakura and Yuuto Nagatomo a rapturous welcome.
Japan's Samurai Blue bid farewell to their 2026 World Cup campaign with an early exit at the knockout stages, returning home to a mixed reception from domestic supporters. The plane carrying the squad touched down at Haneda Airport, where approximately 700 passionate fans awaited, transforming the disappointment of an early exit into a heartfelt celebration. The arrival lounge at Haneda saw the return of key figures such as head coach Hajime Moriyasu, captain Ko Itakura, and veteran defender Yuuto Nagatomo, who made his fifth consecutive World Cup appearance.
