Japanese manager optimistic that strong World Cup performance will motivate other Asian teams

Japan's coach, Hajime Moriyasu, is optimistic that his team's World Cup performances will have a profound impact on other Asian nations, as evidenced by Chinese football fans celebrating Japan's success, despite the two countries' historically complex political relationship.

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Footage from AFP showed Chinese supporters in Shanghai cheering on Japan as they secured a 4-0 victory over Tunisia, demonstrating a rare display of unity between the two nations.

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Japan's spot in the last 32 was confirmed on Thursday, following a 1-1 draw with Sweden in Texas, and they are now set to face Brazil in their next match.

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When asked by AFP if his team's success was not only a victory for Japan, but for the entire Asian continent, Moriyasu expressed his pride in representing both Japan and Asia, acknowledging the significance of their role in the global football scene.

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Moriyasu emphasized that even if Japan were not to secure a win, he hoped that their participation would serve as a source of encouragement for other Asian teams, and that healthy competition among these teams could elevate the overall standard of football in the region.

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Other Asian Football Confederation teams, such as South Korea, Iran, and Australia, remain in contention, with South Korea hoping to advance to the next round as one of the best third-placed finishers.

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China, on the other hand, failed to qualify for the World Cup, marking another disappointment for the country, which has only made it to the tournament once, back in 2002.