After the Samurai Blues’ historic 2-1 victory over the 2010 World Cup champions Spain on Thursday night at the Khalifa International Stadium, Japan national team coach Hajime Moriyasu said his team is aiming to advance past the Round of 16 and set a new record.
Following their two identical 2-1 triumph over group favorites Germany and Spain, Japan won the group thanks to quick goals from replacements Ritsu Doan and Ao Tanaka in their final group stage match.
Japan’s victory ensured four-time champions Germany were eliminated alongside Costa Rica, after amassing only 4 points.
Moriyasu stated after the game that his team is now aiming to advance to the last eight after securing a spot in the Round of 16, where they will face Croatia.
Additionally, he said he is aiming to go past the Last 16 at the World Cup, which would be a first for Japan.
“In terms of a finish, the new aim for us is the last eight. I would like to set a new record for the last eight or better,” said Moriyasu.
Japan’s advancement to the Round of 16 marked the Asian country’s first appearance in the knockout stages of two World Cups in a row.
The Samurai Blue will face 2018 World Cup losing finalists Croatia in the Round of 16 on Monday, and a victory over the Checkered Ones will put Japan in the quarterfinals for the first time.
