U-23 Japan National Team left for Qatar in order to participate in the AFC U-23 Championship, which is also the final Asian qualifying round for the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

The 23 players gathered altogether for the first time at a hotel near Haneda Airport on 2 January. The coach TEGURAMORI Makoto, greeted the players: "this is the final selection of the team for the final Asian qualifying round. We’re here and it’s about to begin. We need to face the tournament with a refreshed mind. It will be tougher than you expect. We’ll become even stronger by winning through such a tournament."

He also noted: "the tournament will test our mental strength to win tough matches, the dignity of the players, who are responsible for the future, and the pride of playing for Japan. We can improve ourselves, while being tested. 2016 is the year in which we have a new strength in Japanese football. Let’s be united - all the 23 players and the staff - and play with a spirit that will lead Japanese football in a new direction." The players were listening with a hopeful and determined look.

They arrived in Qatar after 16 hours, including transit. They held a practice session to recover from a long flight. It was a little chilly after the sunset with temperatures of 18 degrees and humidity at 37 %, which were better conditions than Japan. The players did some exercises to recover, such as stretches and aerobic running, followed by ball training techniques and 6-on-2 passing practice in a relaxed atmosphere.

Although the players seemed to be a little tired due to the long flight and the change in climate, they had a very productive practice session on the first day. They will have two sessions - one in the morning and the other in the afternoon - on 4 January.

Players' Comments

DF  MISAO Kento (Tokyo Verdy)
It’s cooler in Qatar than I expected. As the temperature difference is quite a lot, we are required to adjust ourselves to get into a good condition. After practicing together, I felt more strongly that I’m in the national team. As a player, I’d like to be on the pitch, of course. Having said that, I’d like to do whatever I can as much as possible regardless of where I am.

During the Ishigaki camp, in which I participated in the final qualifiers squad, I practiced as though I were selected for the team. Now I feel the heavier responsibility of wearing this football shirt. I hope my character will make the team’s atmosphere even better. I’d like to intercept the ball during defence to initiate attacks, and contribute to the team.

MF  MINAMINO Takumi (Salzburg)
We got together and practiced together - I’m excited it’s finally starting. As I have joined the team now, I must focus on communicating with others for better coordination.

I’d like to play as a team through communication. Although the most vital thing is to play for the team’s victory, as an attacker I’d like to contribute goals as well as assists. I will prepare myself for the opening game, so that I can play as I want.

JFA-TV (Japanese version only)

Schedule