The 2019 AFC Asian Cup saw Japan, a powerhouse in Asian football, field a strong squad aiming to lift the prestigious trophy for a record fifth time. While they fell short of the ultimate goal, their journey showcased the talent and determination that have become synonymous with the Samurai Blue. Here’s a closer look at the Japan Asian Cup 2019 squad, analyzing their key players, tactical setup, and overall performance in the tournament.
The Squad Composition
Head coach Hajime Moriyasu faced a challenging task in selecting the final 23 players to represent Japan. The squad was a blend of experienced veterans and promising youngsters, reflecting a period of transition for Japanese football.
Key Players
Several players played pivotal roles in Japan’s Asian Cup campaign:
- Maya Yoshida: The experienced center-back and captain provided leadership and defensive solidity throughout the tournament.
- Gaku Shibasaki: The midfielder’s creativity and passing range were crucial in dictating Japan’s tempo and creating scoring opportunities.
- Takumi Minamino: The dynamic attacker emerged as one of the tournament’s standout performers, showcasing his dribbling skills, vision, and eye for goal.
Tactical Approach and Style of Play
Moriyasu favored a fluid 4-2-3-1 formation that emphasized possession-based football and quick transitions. Japan’s tactical setup aimed to:
- Control possession: Japan sought to dominate possession, using their technically gifted midfielders to dictate the tempo and create passing triangles.
- Exploit the flanks: With pacey wingers like Ritsu Doan and Junya Ito, Japan frequently utilized width to stretch opposing defenses and create crossing opportunities.
- Press high: Japan’s defensive approach involved pressing high up the pitch, aiming to win the ball back quickly and launch swift counter-attacks.
Tournament Journey
Japan topped their group with three victories, setting the stage for a knockout stage run. They navigated through tough challenges, defeating Saudi Arabia and Vietnam in the Round of 16 and quarterfinals, respectively. However, their journey ended in the final against Qatar, where they suffered a 3-1 defeat.
Legacy and Looking Ahead
While Japan fell short of their ultimate goal, the 2019 Asian Cup provided valuable experience for the young players within the squad. The tournament served as a stepping stone in their development and highlighted the future potential of Japanese football. The performance also underscored the need for continuous improvement and adaptation to stay competitive on the international stage.