FIFA Futsal World Cup Colombia 2016 champions Argentina arrived to Japan ahead of their two international friendlies against Japan Futsal National Team, which will be held on Thursday 25 January at Ota-City General Gymnasium in Tokyo and Sunday 28 January at Toyama City Gymnasium in Toyama.

The South American side made its arrival in two separate flights, one landing at Narita International Airport and the other at Haneda Airport on Tuesday 23 January. Fatigues from the long trip were evident, but the players were strictly enforced to take measures against the Japanese winter climate in order to keep them in shape ahead of the upcoming contests.

Argentina Futsal National Team's Comments

Sanzo ALEJANDRO, Staff
(Impression of Japan)
I've only been able to see very few, but it's a developed country and the cities are beautiful. People seem to be nice, very punctual and well behaved. I'm just amazed by the difference from my own country.

(Expectations for the match against Japan)
I know Japan is one of the best teams in Asia. I also know that they are finding it difficult to make a generation change. By playing against an experienced team like us, I think there are lots to gain for them, inspiring the younger generation while they gain experience to better themselves. But more than anything, we are looking forward to play against Japan.

Pablo TABORDA
(Impression of Japan)
Compared to our country, their technologies are amazing. Although it’s my second time in Japan, I'm surprised each and every day. I have visited Tokyo and Osaka last time, and I was looking forward to visiting here again.

(Expectations for the match against Japan)
It's not our first time playing against Japan. I think the current coach of the Japanese national team is doing a great job. I'm looking forward to playing against one of the best teams in Asia. We are always highly motivated, and we pursue victory regardless of whom we play.

Maximiliano RESCIA
(Impression of Japan)
It's my second time in Japan. I have visited Kobe and Osaka a few years ago for national team matches. Japan is one of my favourite countries. The cities are clean and the people are very kind. I was looking forward to coming here.

(Expectations for the match against Japan)
Giving our very best in any giving match is our motto, so that’s exactly what we’ll do. It has been a long trip while our stay is short, we’ll have to cope with jet lag and such, but we will do our best as the defending world champions.

Argentina Futsal National Team Member

Coach

Diego GIUSTOZZI

Squad

GK
12   Guido MOSENSON (Boca Juniors)
1   Nicolas SARMIENTO (Palma Futsal/Spain)

FP
14   Pablo TABORDA (ASD Luparense C5/Italy)
10   Cristian BORRUTO (Pescara C5/Italy)
7   Leandro CUZZOLINO (Pescara C5/Italy)
5   Maximiliano RESCIA (Pescara C5/Italy)
11   Alan BRANDI (Jaen Paraiso Interior/Spain)
2   Luciano AVELINO (Kaos Regio Emilia C5/Italy)
8   Sebastian CORSO (Catgas Santa Coloma/Spain)
4   Lucas BOLO ALEMANY (Peniscola/Spain)
6   Lucas TRIPODI (Levante/Spain)
9   Matias ROSA (Pescara C5/Italy)

Schedule

*The schedule is subject to change due to the team condition, the weather, etc.