NEWS

Japan coach Takeshi Okada believes that Japan can reach the Last Eight at the 2010 World Cup if his players perform at their best when they meet Paraguay in the Round of 16 on Tuesday in Pretoria.

In their fourth straight appearance in the finals, Japan are aiming to go beyond the Round of 16 for the first time. Their only other appearance in the Round of 16 was on home soil in 2002.
“This is a challenge that we haven’t had before, so we want to put everything we have into succeeding,” Okada said following his side’s final tune-up session at Loftus Versfeld Stadium.
“Obviously, Paraguay are a strong side, as they qualified for the knockout stages by winning their group against some strong opposition. They are very solid in defense and fast in attack. They have strong individuals and many of them play in Europe. They may not be flamboyant, but they have the ability to do very well.”
But Okada believes Paraguay are beatable.
“I think if we play to our full capacity, we have a chance of beating them,” the 53-year-old Japan coach noted. “We must be careful about their attack and their quick transition from defense.
“Tomorrow, I want to make our players play at their best and with all their might, both physically and mentally.”
“Our players must also realize that such opportunities – to challenge for a place in the Last Eight of the World Cup – are rare in a footballer’s career. If they are aware of this, they should be able to maintain their motivation.”
Asked if he could take any lessons from Japan’s exit in the Round of 16 in 2002, Okada replied, “As I was not on the national team staff at the time, I don’t know what was happening within the squad. But the blame should have been attached not only to the team, but also to the Japanese football world as everyone seemed satisfied with reaching the knockout stage. What I am concerned about now is that our players won’t be affected by reports in the media.”
Japan midfielder Makoto Hasebe commented, “Having come this far, I don’t think we have anything to lose. I’d like to do my best, enjoy playing in the knockout stage of the World Cup and win the game.”
Japan last played Paraguay in Saitama two years ago. The match ended 0-0.
“The team we played against then was their second team, so this will be the real thing,” Hasebe noted. “We can make history by winning this time.”
The Wolfsburg midfielder added: “As Japan are the only Asian side left in the tournament, we want to show the progress of Asian football by winning.”