SAMURAI BLUE (Japan National Team) took on Tunisia in their second group-stage match of the FIFA World Cup 2026™ on 20 June (local time) in Monterrey, Mexico.

Despite appearing at seven previous FIFA World Cups, Japan had won their second group-stage match only once before, against Russia at the 2002 FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan™. Although they had earned a dramatic draw against the Netherlands after twice coming from behind in their opener, the players were fully aware of Japan's long-standing struggles in second group-stage matches. Before kick-off, NAGATOMO Yuto (FC Tokyo) spoke about the unique challenges of the match and urged his teammates to remain fully focused.

Head coach MORIYASU Hajime made four changes to the side that faced the Netherlands. SUZUKI Zion (Parma Calcio 1913) started in goal behind a back three of TOMIYASU Takehiro (AFC Ajax), ITAKURA Kou (AFC Ajax) and ITO Hiroki (Bayern Munich). In midfield, DOAN Ritsu (Eintracht Frankfurt), SANO Kaishu (Mainz 05), TANAKA Ao (Leeds United) and NAKAMURA Keito (Stade de Reims) were selected. .....

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日本サッカー協会（JFA）／日本代表／なでしこジャパン(@japanfootballassociation)がシェアした投稿

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