FIFA World Cup – J.League Regista

Texas Ball ‘Em

Japan will play twice in Arlington, Texas at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. We talked to the Dallas Japanese Association over their feelings around this incredible chance.

Shushō – Masami Ihara

Calm and steady, but ready to battle: the first captain for Japan at a FIFA World Cup had to be a balanced guy like Masami Ihara.

Pride and Precipice

The domination in the WCQs shouldn’t delude Japan – it already happened, and there are some things to adjust.

Lost Treasures – Yōichirō Kakitani

The first year without any J1 goal reminded us of what Yōichirō Kakitani could have been (and he hasn’t been).

What Doesn’t Kill You Makes You Smarter

A bitter exit because of penalties hurts, but this doesn’t have to stop Japanese football from thinking ahead.

The Lost Prince

From Yasuhito Endo’s true successor to anonymous Spanish second division gigs: the story of Gaku Shibasaki.

The Goalie-mma

After a suffering campaign, Japan qualified for the 2022 World Cup. The keeper situation, though, is all but solved.