Amanah Alfian

🚨Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu was asked why many countries still view Japan as underdogs and how that perception has motivated his team after their dominant 4–0 victory over Tunisia. 🎙️ Reporter: “Coach Moriyasu, despite Japan’s recent performances, many people still consider your team underdogs. Why do you think that is, and has it motivated your players during this World Cup?” 🗣️ Hajime Moriyasu: “I understand why some people still see Japan that way because football has traditionally been dominated by nations with long histories of winning major tournaments. “We respect those countries and everything they have achieved, but we don’t focus too much on labels like ‘underdogs’ or ‘favourites.’ “If people underestimate us, that is their choice. For us, it becomes extra motivation. “Our players work incredibly hard every day, and they are proud to represent Japan. They want to show the world that Japanese football belongs at the highest level. “What has driven this team throughout the tournament is not proving people wrong—it is proving ourselves right. “We know our quality. We trust our preparation, our style of play, and the values that define us as a team. “The players have shown great discipline, courage, and humility. They fight for each other in every moment, and that unity is our greatest strength. “A 4–0 victory does not change our mentality. We remain humble, we continue to improve, and we keep our focus on the next challenge. “If other teams still see us as underdogs, that is fine. We will continue to let our football do the talking. {@fifaworldcup_ar }