Japan’s Samurai Blue received a warm Tennessee welcome as they held their first World Cup training session at Geodis Park in Nashville, cheered on by around 5,000 enthusiastic fans.
Fresh from a pre-tournament camp in Monterrey, Mexico, Hajime Moriyasu’s 26-man squad arrived in the U.S. and eased into preparations with a light session. Captain Wataru Endo thanked supporters during a welcome ceremony, saying, “We’re so happy to start our World Cup journey in this amazing city.”
Japan, making their eighth consecutive World Cup appearance, are aiming to reach the quarterfinals for the first time in their history. Their Group F opener is set for Sunday against the Netherlands at Dallas Stadium.
The squad also welcomed Takumi Minamino—injured but present as a mentor—and former captain Maya Yoshida, now assisting as a support player. Defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, who impressed in the recent send-off match against Iceland, expressed gratitude for the fan support and confidence in his fitness: “Seeing so many fans supporting us, I want to repay their expectations.”
Between matches, Japan will stay in Nashville, returning to Monterrey for their second game against Tunisia before facing Sweden back in Dallas.
With passionate fans behind them and a focused squad, the Samurai Blue are determined to make history at this summer’s tournament.
