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Young Samurai Blue Maturing in Copa America Draw
In Japan's second Copa America match against Uruguay, a relatively young squad put on a solid display and boosted optimism for the future, despite surrendering a lead twice, and having to settle for a single point.
Immature Opening to Copa America
A thoroughly inexperienced flock of pretenders wearing Samurai Blue jerseys was led out like sheep to the slaughter on Monday, in Japan's opening Copa America match against Chile. Perhaps result was no surprise, but that did not make it any easier to watch.
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Countdown to Copa
In its final tuneup before this summer's trip to South America, the Samurai Blue provided fans with reason for genuine optimism. As "experimental" as the squad may be, this unit looks like in could make a real impact . . . . in time.
Kyoto Sanga the team to Watch in J2 This Season?
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.