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The Japanese national team faces significant squad challenges ahead of the 2026 World Cup. |
Most recently, Kaoru Mitoma is at risk of missing the biggest football event on the planet. The Brighton midfielder suffered a hamstring injury in the 3-0 victory against Wolves in the 36th round of the Premier League. According to Japanese media, the severity of Mitoma's injury is causing particular concern among football experts in the country.
Not only Mitoma, but the Japanese national team is also struggling with a series of other serious injuries. Takumi Minamino has a torn anterior cruciate ligament and will definitely miss the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, Wataru Endo has an ankle ligament problem, Yuito Suzuki has a broken collarbone, and Koki Machida has been sidelined for a long period since the beginning of the season.
With the 2026 World Cup adding a round of 16, Japan's journey will be much more difficult. Although Japanese football has produced some outstanding young talents in Europe, the big question is whether they have enough experience to replace the key players on the world's biggest stage.
Since 2019, Japan has successively defeated many strong teams such as Germany (twice), Spain, Türkiye, Scotland, and most recently England. The team also drew with Croatia after 120 minutes in the Round of 16 of the 2022 World Cup before losing on penalties.
However, with their squad depleted, Japan is at serious risk of an early exit from the 2026 World Cup. The "Blue Samurai" are in Group F alongside the Netherlands, Sweden, and Tunisia.
Source: https://znews.vn/bao-dong-do-voi-tuyen-nhat-ban-post1650972.html
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