Japan national team head coach Mori Baoichi was interviewed by his former disciple Sato Shouren on a program, addressing the 12 goals scored in the first two matches of the Asian qualifiers and discussing which goals were scored as expected.
Shoujin Sato began with a question, "In the first two matches of the Asian qualifiers, the team scored 12 goals, which of them do you think were scored as expected?"
After a moment's thought, Morihoichi replied, "Each of the goals was wonderful, reflecting the strength and understanding of our team. But if I had to pick one, I would say the second goal against China."
Shoujin Sato was clearly interested in the answer and recalled the exciting moment of that goal: "Indeed, that goal was very exciting. Hidemasa Morita was occupying a high position in the box, and there were three other players in the box, and Kaoru Mitaka was actively participating in the attack from the periphery. Kubo Jianying received a pass on the right side of the box and quickly passed the ball to Don Yasutoshi. Don Yasutoshi made a precise pass from outside the box, and Kaoru Mitonabashi met it at the far post with a powerful shot on goal."
Morihiro Ichi expressed his high approval of the goal: "That goal perfectly reflected our team's tactical intent. We were able to break through the opponent's defense and increase the number of players in the box from the side. In the end, the flanker on the opposite side of the field scored with a triple. This was one of our team's goals, to create scoring opportunities through teamwork and precise passing. I think we succeeded in achieving that goal."
