Yukinari Sugawara, wing-back of the Japanese national team, has announced a crucial goal: Japan will come to the 2026 World Cup to win the championship.
On 14 June 2026 GMT+7, the Japanese national team, a regular Asian contender in the World Cup finals, has qualified for eight consecutive tournaments but has never advanced beyond the round of 16.
Previously, Japan declared its ambition to win the World Cup by 2030, surprising many fans with this bold target.
Most recently, Yukinari Sugawara stated that at the 2026 World Cup, they are not just participating—they are aiming for the championship as well.
"We are competing in this World Cup not just for fun. We want to be champions. Therefore, we must prepare thoroughly and fight for our country and for the Japanese people," he said.
Japan will play their first match in the 2026 World Cup in Group F against the Netherlands tonight (early morning 15 June) at 03:00 GMT+7.