News
Kyoto Sanga Begin 2019 Campaign Well
After an extended run in the second tier, Kyoto Sanga are aiming to climb back into the top-flight this season, laying out some cash, signing some experienced players while keeping hold of some of their more talented youngsters, to bolster the team. Leading the way is Gert Engels, the man who led them their greatest past success -- an Emperor's Cup title in 2002.
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Asian Cup: Poetic Justice
There are times when the world seems to be more equitable than those who inhabit it -- times when a confluence of events make a statement that is more eloquent than anything a mere mortal could say. Last night was one of those times.
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Lost in Translation
After Japan advanced to the final of the Asian Cup, with a comprehensive victory over Iran, one might expect the football press to show a bit more interest in, and appreciation of the Samurai Blue. That is . . . if one is new to the region, and hasnt seen how the AFC traditionally operates. For those who are still scratching their heads, here are a few pointers.
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Asian Cup: Poetic Justice
There are times when the world seems to be more equitable than those who inhabit it -- times when a confluence of events make a statement that is more eloquent than anything a mere mortal could say. Last night was one of those times.
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Asian Cup: Standup Comic Officiating
Japan progressed to the quarterfinals of the 2019 Asian Cup, following a deserved though narrow victory over Saudi Arabia. The only "stars" of the contest, though, were the AFC standup comedy officiating team.
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Asian Cup: Home Advantage
An all-reserve Samurai Blue put on a very solid showing against Uzbekistan on Thursday, claiming victory thanks to the contributions of an Al-Ain "local favourite".
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Asian Cup: Stuck in Neutral
Japan punched their ticket to the Asian Cup knockout round, but in underwhelming fashion. Though they did control the game almost completely, failure to find the net shows that the team is still having trouble getting into gear.
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Asian Cup: Half-Empty? Half-Full?
Japan recorded their first victory of the 2019 Asian Cup, though certainly not in stellar fashion. It is easy to identify the weaknesses, but in a tournament that often troubles more fancied participants, the Samurai Blue at least managed to get the job done.
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Kagawa on the Move?
Shinji Kagawa is reportedly looking to leave the Bundesliga leaders in the January transfer window. Where could the Japan playmaker end up?
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Moriyasu Japan Still Perfect
Japan recorded their third straight victory under coach Hajime Moriyasu, setting a record for the best start in National Team history, and demonstrating once more that the Samurai Blue have discarded the uncertainties and inadequacies of the past, and are ready to handle truly world class competition .
