Sports
New Japan Captain Itakura Vows to Unite Team After Endo's Departure
Newly appointed Japan captain Ko Itakura has pledged to unite the squad following the departure of his predecessor Wataru Endo, which disrupted preparations for the World Cup opener against the Netherlands. Itakura, named captain shortly after Endo left for personal reasons, vowed to take responsibility and connect the players. The match against the Netherlands is seen as Japan's first major test, but Itakura says the team is ready and trusts its collective ability.