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Veteran full-back Yuto Nagatomo, who holds the record for five World Cup appearances with Japan, has decided to continue his career with FC Tokyo in the J.League, a source close to the player said on Saturday. The 39-year-old will enter his sixth season with the capital club after returning from Europe in 2021.
Japanese defender Takehiro Tomiyasu has officially joined Crystal Palace, returning to the Premier League after a year away. The 27-year-old former Arsenal player brings international experience and is expected to strengthen the Eagles' defense.
Kashima Antlers opened their J.League title defense with a thrilling 4-3 comeback win over Yokohama F Marinos, thanks to two stoppage-time goals from substitute Aleksandar Cavric. The match saw multiple lead changes before the defending champions sealed three points on the road.
New Japan head coach Go Oiwa acknowledges the heavy workload ahead but confirms his immediate priority is guiding the U-21 team at this year's Asian Games on home soil. He will temporarily hold dual roles with the senior national squad and the youth side.
Former Japan international Shinji Kagawa set up the only goal as Cerezo Osaka defeated Borussia Dortmund 1-0 in an international friendly on Wednesday. The veteran playmaker's early assist proved decisive as the Japanese side's defense held firm against sustained pressure from the Bundesliga giants.
After a strong 2-2 draw with the Netherlands, Japan is determined to avoid repeating the mistake of losing to Costa Rica in the 2022 World Cup. The team is focusing on mental and tactical discipline ahead of facing Tunisia, who have a new coach. The match is crucial for both teams' progression hopes.
Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu has called on his players to demonstrate their progress over the last three and a half years as they face the Netherlands in their opening match of the 2026 World Cup on Sunday. He emphasized relentless preparation and confidence, noting this is the team's third consecutive World Cup under his leadership.
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.
Japan's World Cup hopes have been dealt a devastating blow as captain Wataru Endo is ruled out on the opening day due to an injury sustained in training. Teammate Daichi Kamada called it a 'huge shock,' while coach Hajime Moriyasu pledged the team would fight for their leader. Endo, 33, who has 65 caps, missed the previous World Cup in 2022 for similar reasons.
