Tokyo: Liverpool’s Wataru Endo has been named in Japan’s squad for upcoming home friendlies against Ghana and Bolivia, as they aim to build on their historic victory over Brazil. Japan’s national team, led by coach Hajime Moriyasu, recently achieved a significant milestone by defeating the five-time world champions Brazil 3-2 in a friendly match in Tokyo, setting a promising tone ahead of the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico next year.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Japan is scheduled to play against fellow World Cup qualifiers Ghana in Toyota on November 14, followed by a match against Bolivia at Tokyo’s National Stadium on November 18. Bolivia still retains a chance to secure a spot in the World Cup through a play-off, having finished seventh in South American qualifying rounds.
In recent matches, Japan demonstrated resilience by coming from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against Paraguay in a friendly. Coach Moriyasu emphasized the importance of teamwork and perseverance, expressing his desire for the players to display the same unity and determination in the upcoming home games. Notably, Premier League players Daichi Kamada from Crystal Palace and Ao Tanaka from Leeds United join Endo in the squad.
Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma, who missed the Brazil match due to injury, remains absent from the squad as he has not played since an injury against Chelsea on September 27. Meanwhile, Feyenoord striker Ayase Ueda, who is currently leading the Dutch league scoring charts with 13 goals and scored the winning goal against Brazil, has been included once again.
The squad also sees first-time call-ups for Red Bull Salzburg forward Sota Kitano and Sint-Truiden duo Leo Brian Kokubo and Keisuke Goto, adding fresh talent to the Japanese lineup.