FIFA World Cup 2026: Japan PM Takaichi lauds national team's spirited campaign after R32 exit
Tokyo, July 1
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Wednesday praised the country's national football team for its spirited FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, saying the players inspired millions with their courage and determination despite their Round of 32 defeat to Brazil.
In a post on X, Takaichi said she had watched Japan's match against Brazil after missing the live broadcast and commended the team for its performance against one of the tournament favourites.
"In the currently ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, the Japan national football team advanced to the knockout stage and put on a magnificent performance against Brazil, one of the title contenders. I wasn't able to watch the live broadcast, but last night, I finally had the chance to view the match against Brazil," she wrote.
The Prime Minister said Japan's players showcased the country's strength through a combination of individual brilliance, teamwork and a player-led approach, highlighting that the side had also registered its highest-ever number of goals scored in a single World Cup match during the tournament.
"In this tournament, the Japanese players, with their outstanding individual skills combined with strong team unity and a player-driven approach to the game, showcased Japan's strength in a big way--recording the most goals in a single match in our history, among other feats. In the match against Brazil, although we took the lead, we fell just short of victory, but the courageous way they challenged a powerhouse opponent delivered courage and emotion to so many of our fellow citizens," she added.
Takaichi also paid tribute to head coach Takeshi Mori, the support staff and players who continued to fight despite injuries within the squad.
"I was deeply moved by the players and staff--including the director Takeshi Mori--who carried the hopes of teammates sidelined by injury, called out to one another as a team, and gave their all until the very end," the Japanese PM said.
Expressing gratitude to the squad and the Japan Football Association, the Prime Minister wished the team greater success in future tournaments and voiced hope that Japan would one day lift the FIFA World Cup trophy.
"To the Japanese players who showed us this wonderful fight, to Director Mori and the entire staff, and to everyone at the Japan Football Association, I offer my heartfelt gratitude, along with prayers for your even greater successes moving forward. And next time, I truly hope you can achieve that long-held dream of winning it all," Takaichi said.
She concluded her message by assuring the team of her continued support, writing, "I'll keep cheering you on from here on out!" (ANI).
— ANI
Reader Comments
I don't understand why people get so emotional about football. They lost in the Round of 32, it's not like they won the cup. The PM's message seems a bit over the top for a team that couldn't even make it past the first knockout stage.
Wow, seeing a Prime Minister personally acknowledge the team like this is so heartwarming. It's not just about winning—it's about spirit, resilience, and inspiring a nation. Japan's journey in this World Cup was incredible. They scored the most goals ever in a single World Cup match and took on Brazil with such courage. We need more of this kind of leadership in our own country's sports ecosystem. 🇮🇳👏
Truly inspiring stuff from Japan. Their brand of football is so unique—technical, disciplined, and full of heart. That goal they scored against Brazil was a thing of beauty. Makes you wonder when India will have such a moment on the world stage. We have the talent, just need better grassroots development and infrastructure.
Japan has shown that Asian teams can compete with the best in the world. Their performance in this World Cup was a joy to watch. The PM's message was beautiful, acknowledging not just the players but also the coaching staff and the team unity. This is how you build a football culture—respect, support, and long-term vision. Hope India takes notes! 🇯🇵🌏
It's nice to see a leader actually watching the matches and caring about sports. Most politicians just
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