Shocking loss to Iraq puts Japan at a huge disadvantage
In the second match of Group D of the 2023 Asian Cup, the Japanese team unexpectedly suffered a 1-2 defeat against Iraq. This defeat put the "Samurai Blue" in a difficult position. If they finish second in Group D, they risk facing the first team of Group E (most likely South Korea) in the round of 16.
Coach Hajime Moriyasu was sad after Japan lost to Iraq (Photo: Getty).
Speaking after the match, coach Hajime Moriyasu said: "We have to reflect on many things after this defeat. The players tried their best to prepare for the match with Iraq. However, we played without concentration and conceded two goals. In the second half, the whole team played hard but could not avoid defeat.
We will face many challenges in the next match. This defeat brings many lessons for the team. Japan needs to learn from this match to have better results in the next matches.
I think all the teams in Asia want to beat the Japanese team. So we need to come back soon. We want to win to please the fans. Hopefully the fans will continue to stay by our side and cheer for the Japanese team."
Japan faces the risk of meeting South Korea in the round of 16 of the 2023 Asian Cup (Photo: Reuters).
"In the first half, we played badly and lost the ball too much. Japan has no choice but to win the next match," said captain Wataru Endo, who scored Japan's only goal against Iraq.
On January 24, the Japanese team will face Indonesia. The chance of the "Samurai Blue" winning the top spot in the group is gone as they are 3 points behind Iraq and have a lower head-to-head record. Therefore, Japan needs to ensure they get at least 1 point against the team from the archipelago to secure a ticket to the next round.
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