Endo out of World Cup, Japan reshuffle before Netherlands opener

Endo out of World Cup, retires from international duty

Captain Wataru Endo has been ruled out of the entire World Cup with injury and has stepped down from the national team. A devastating blow just two days before Japan's opener against the Netherlands. Coach Hajime Moriyasu has called up Shuto Machino, a sixth forward, to replace the midfielder, a move that signals a tactical reshuffle is coming (1).

Opening match: Netherlands on June 14

Japan face the Netherlands in their Group F opener on June 14 (2) (4). The timing and venue are set, and the stakes couldn't be higher, your team heads into this one without its captain and spiritual leader.

Unbeaten against Europe since 2018

There is a record worth holding onto. Japan have not lost to a European side since 2018, a streak that makes them genuine giant-killers heading into this tournament (3). The Netherlands have been warned.

Moriyasu's tactical groundwork

The secret behind Japan's reputation as a 'giant-killer'? Coach Moriyasu has travelled the globe studying tactical systems, breaking down opponents in forensic detail ahead of this World Cup (5). With Endo absent, that preparation will be tested like never before.