News
The New Era Has ... Arrived?
The East Asian Cup opened on Tuesday evening, with a host of fresh new faces for the Samurai Blue faithful to run the rule over. The best new debutante of all was not a player, although most J.League fans have come to know it very well over the past decade.
Another Sluggish Step for Samurai Blue
Japan's 2022 World Cup qualification match on Thursday evening was another chance for the Samurai Blue to try out new players, tactics and formations against a small but feisty opponent. Instead, we got pretty much the same old, same old. Fortunately, next week's clash with Venezuela and the mid-December East Asian Cup should give us a chance to look at some new faces.
There are two Japan national team squads in the coming weeks as they play a World Cup Qualifier - the 1st XI, and then a Kirin Cup friendly - a chance to give some lesser-experienced players a chance to shine.
What to Do When the J.League Season Is Over?!
The end of the J.League 2019 season is just around the corner.... but soon the exciting story lines will conclude, leaving a need to be entertained and to compete until the top division of Japanese football gets underway once again.
Going Through the Motions
Japan's first home match in 2022 World Cup qualification was played on Thursday evening, against that mighty footballing behemoth, Mongolia. If that intro doesnt set your pulse to racing . . . . well . . . . to be honest, this report on the Samurai Blue's performance isnt going to do so either. So pull up a pillow, and . . . .
Current Kyoto Sanga head coach Gert Engels is interviewed in issue 28 of JSoccer Magazine - and the pages are clipped for your perusal below! You can get an actal paper copy of the magazine by sending $10 inc. worldwide shipping to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. via Paypal, and leaving your address! Enjoy the musings of a man who has been in our game longer than many of us have been alive!
Clash of the Titans
The J.League resumed play this weekend, as the season moves into its final stretch. The top four teams all played one another, and the results narrowed the title chase significantly.
A Rainy Night in Myanmar
Japan's opening match in 2022 World Cup qualification was played on Tuesday evening, in Myanmar. Though one match generally doesnt tell the whole story, Samurai Blue fans may have received some hints about Coach Moriyasu's plans for the future of the National Team.
Back to Basics
Japan's friendly against Paraguay served as Coach Moriyasu's final opportunity to prepare for the start of World Cup qualification. While June's trip to South America seemed like more of a rehearsal for the 2020 Olympics, this contest featured an older, more mature unit.
Blue Dolphins Mob Chelsea
It has been a while since Japan has hosted a real high-profile summer tour by major European clubs. Kawasaki fans will have enjoyed the return of international club friendlies, as the Blue Dolphins snatched a winning goal at the close, for a 1-0 victory.
