Japan’s World Cup qualifying journey has taken an unexpected turn, as they prepare to face Bahrain in a crucial match on Tuesday. The Bahrainis, having pulled off a stunning 1-0 upset against Australia in their opening game, pose a significant threat to Japan’s hopes of securing a place in the 2026 World Cup finals.
While Japan enters the match brimming with confidence following a resounding 7-0 victory over China, coach Hajime Moriyasu is leaving no room for complacency. He emphasizes that the win against China does not guarantee anything ahead of the Bahrain game, highlighting the unpredictable nature of these qualifiers.
The unexpected defeat of Australia, a team widely considered superior to Bahrain, serves as a stark reminder for Japan. Moriyasu underscores the need for unwavering focus and dedication, reiterating the importance of taking each game seriously.
Japan’s previous encounter with Bahrain in the Asian Cup earlier this year resulted in a 3-1 win, but Moriyasu is keen to avoid any sense of entitlement. He acknowledges Bahrain’s newfound momentum and the advantage of playing on home soil.
To counter Bahrain’s potential threat, Moriyasu plans to deploy a flexible approach, adapting to the flow of the match and maximizing the individual talents of his players. This involves striking a balance between aggressive play and strategic patience, ensuring that they maintain their intensity until the final whistle.
The match against Bahrain promises to be a challenging one for Japan, and their ability to overcome the threat posed by the reigning champions of Group C will be a crucial test in their pursuit of a record eighth consecutive World Cup appearance.
