

In their opening 2022 FIFA World Cup Group E match against the four-time champions, Germany on Wednesday, Japan's captain Maya Yoshida is aware that his team will need all the help they can get to succeed in what will undoubtedly be a difficult contest. He believes that they will have support from fans throughout Asia, not just in the Khalifa International Stadium where they have their own fanbase. The pride of the continent is undoubtedly on the line after hosts Qatar's lacklustre performance in a 2-0 loss to Ecuador on the tournament's opening night was followed on Monday by Iran's humiliating 6-2 loss to England.
When asked by ESPN about the significance for Japan to avoid similar outcomes at the pre-match press conference, Yoshida responded, "Of course, we have observed the games of Iran and Qatar — it's been a tough start from the Asian countries."