In the pre-match press conference for the upcoming 18-team home match against China, Japan's central midfielder, Endo Hang, gave his insights and expectations. He was full of anticipation for the upcoming final stage of the World Qualifying Tournament and expressed the determination of the whole team to go all out and fight for victory.
Air Endo started by talking about his thoughts on the World Qualifier. He expressed his excitement and anticipation for the final stage of the tournament, which is finally upon us after a long period of preparation and waiting. He emphasized that the Japanese team is making the best possible preparations in the existing environment and that the whole team will work together to win the tournament.
Speaking about the newly added assistant coach Makoto Hasebe, Air Endo spoke highly of him. He believes that the addition of Makoto Hasebe to the coaching staff is a huge advantage for the team as a player with a rich career and experience. Especially for those young players who haven't worked with him before, the addition of Makoto Hasebe to the team is undoubtedly a great incentive. Hiromu Endo added that it is very important for players playing overseas to contribute to Japanese soccer and that the addition of Makoto Hasebe will help the players to be better prepared for the final stage of the WC and apply what they have learned to the game.
Endo Air did not shy away from the history of opening the third stage of the previous two World Qualifiers. He admitted that players who experienced the last tournament remember those results, including the Asian Cup loss. But he also emphasized that the team is well aware that it will not be easy and needs to be prepared for a long battle. Endo Hang said that the team will fight for victory one game at a time, starting with a win against China. He called on the whole team to prepare positively and not to think too much about the negative factors, as long as they give their best in the matches, the results will naturally follow.
When talking about the Chinese team, Endo Hang showed enough respect and caution. He believes that China's coach knows Japan very well, but it is uncertain whether they will adopt the same tactics as last time. Endo Hang said that China will play to the strengths of their players, so Japan needs to control the ball more and manage the risk of counterattacks well. He also highlighted China's preparation for set-pieces, arguing that Japan also needs to be well prepared for every ball.
