Japan National Team Returns Home After 2026 World Cup Exit;…
Japan National Team Returns Home, 700 Fans Cheer at Haneda... Manager Moriyasu and Captain Itakura Appear
The Japan National Team returns home after a Round of 16 exit at the 2026 World Cup. Approximately 700 fans gathered at Haneda Airport to warmly welcome Manager Moriyasu, Captain Itakura, and Yuto Nagatomo.
The Samurai Blue's challenge for the 2026 World Cup came to an end with a Round of 16 exit, marking a return to Japan filled with complex emotions. Following the early conclusion of the tournament, the aircraft carrying the Japan National Team's key players arrived at Haneda Airport, where there was no time to wallow in disappointment as approximately 700 passionate supporters were waiting. This scene vividly demonstrated the enduring support for the national team despite the unmet goal, making for a homecoming that was bittersweet for the players who did not get to taste the wine of victory.
Appearing in the arrival lobby at Haneda Airport were core members including Manager Hajime Moriyasu, who commanded the team, Captain Ko Itakura, and veteran Yuto Nagatomo, who achieved his fifth consecutive World Cup appearance. As soon as they appeared, fans immediately sent up chants of 'Nippon' and loud applause, enveloping them in an atmosphere reminiscent of a champions' return. However, this return also showed an aspect where the team was not entirely in step.
Key attacking players such as Ayase Ueda and Takefusa Kubo arrived at Narita Airport instead of Haneda, resulting in a split return for the team. This 'divided return' may reflect transportation arrangements immediately after the tournament or individual circumstances, but it gave a somewhat abrupt impression different from a return symbolizing unity as one team. Nevertheless, the 700 fans who crowded into Haneda boiled over just seeing the players' faces, creating a warm atmosphere as if sharing the regret of the early elimination.
The welcome at the airport was not merely fan service but also carried significance as a prelude to the turbulent transition period likely to begin. While the results on the pitch were regrettable, the appearance of the experienced legend Yuto Nagatomo, the next-generation leader Captain Itakura, and commander Manager Moriyasu together served as an important ritual marking the end of a cycle for supporters. The fans did not boo but rather maintained an appreciative attitude toward the players.
This proves that even if evaluations of performance during the tournament are to be harshly conducted hereafter, there exists pure respect for the fact that the players fought on the field. This frenzy can be said to have been a special moment that momentarily makes one forget the harsh reality facing Japanese soccer. This return marks the formal end of the 2026 cycle, but substantive verification work is only now getting into full swing.
For the Japan Football Association (JFA), this is a crucial juncture for building the team's framework for the next four years, starting with the issue of Manager Moriyasu's continuation. How will they evolve the team, using the frustration of not overcoming the Round of 16 wall as a springboard? To avoid betraying the supporters' unwavering passion, a fundamental review of the entire organization, not just on-pitch tactics, is required.
They did not bring back the trophy of victory, but whether this enthusiasm can be converted into driving force for the next success will be the maximum focus hereafter. In this World Cup, Japan's attack showed potential to compete on the international stage but exposed a lack of finishing ability. Particularly in the Group Stage match against Belgium and the Round of 16 match against Brazil, they approached the opponent's goal but lacked final precision and could not convert chances into goals.
This issue highlights the limitations of the 'possession-based soccer' that Manager Moriyasu has been working on since his appointment. Future strengthening will likely require new tactical approaches to increase diversity and finishing in the attack. Additionally, the emergence of young players in this tournament attracted attention.
Players in their early 20s, such as Ko Itakura and Takefusa Kubo, played central roles and showed performances that gave a feel for the team's future. However, they still lack experience and stability to truly lead the team as leaders. Towards the next World Cup, the key will be how to encourage the growth of young players while utilizing the knowledge of veterans.
Whether legends like Yuto Nagatomo remain with the team will also have a significant impact on future team composition. Throughout the tournament, the presence of the Japan National Team's defensive line was also prominent. In particular, DF Shogo Taniguchi showed stable defense from the Group Stage to the Round of 16, supporting the team's foundation.
On the other hand, the injury departure of Hidemasa Morita, the core of the midfield, became a factor that robbed the team of tactical flexibility. These elements are points that cannot be overlooked when considering future strengthening measures. Discussions aimed at the next World Cup are already beginning within the JFA, including the possibility of a manager change.
If Manager Moriyasu's continuation is decided, specific reforms to overcome challenges will be required while continuing the current tactical line. On the other hand, if a new manager is invited, urgent reconstruction of the team will be necessary. In any case, the wall facing Japanese soccer is high, and strategic efforts beyond mere result-oriented arguments are indispensable. Read at Soccer King
Why this matters
This return holds meaning beyond the mere arrival of players. With the end of one cycle, the 2026 World Cup, the Japan Football Association (JFA) needs to thoroughly analyze the causes of defeat and draw a path for the future. The fact that 700 fans gathered amidst the disappointment of an early exit shows that supporters' passion has not cooled, highlighting that constructive discussions regarding Manager Moriyasu's future and the team's tactical evolution are indispensable to maintain and expand this support. There are no few voices seeking the cause of the defeat in a lack of connection between players and tactical rigidity, and concrete reform plans for the next World Cup are being sought.
Frequently asked
What are the future challenges for the Japan Football Association?
The Japan Football Association (JFA) faces a wide range of challenges, including Manager Moriyasu's future, tactical evolution, and an overall organizational review. Specifically, improving the attack's finishing ability and developing young players are urgent matters. Discussions aimed at the next World Cup have already begun within the JFA, including the manager's fate.
Which young players attracted attention in this tournament?
Players in their early 20s, such as Ko Itakura and Takefusa Kubo, played central roles in this tournament. Their growth will be the key towards the next World Cup.
What are the challenges for the Japan National Team's defensive line?
While the defensive line's presence was prominent throughout the tournament and there are stable players like Shogo Taniguchi, the lack of experience among young defenders became a highlighted issue. Towards the next World Cup, it is necessary to strengthen the depth of the defensive corps.
Is there a possibility of a manager change?
If Manager Moriyasu's continuation is decided, specific reforms to overcome challenges will be required while continuing the current tactical line. On the other hand, if a new manager is invited, urgent reconstruction of the team will be necessary. Discussions aimed at the next World Cup have already begun within the JFA.
What impact did Hidemasa Morita's injury departure have?
Hidemasa Morita's injury departure became a factor that robbed the team of tactical flexibility. Losing the midfield core led to a breakdown in the rhythm of the attack, and scenes where quick counters after ball retrieval did not function became noticeable. Towards the next World Cup, it is necessary to strengthen the depth of the midfield.
