Japan's World Cup exit reopens the Postecoglou question

Five knockout leads, five exits

Your team did it again, and it hurts the same way. Japan 1–2 Brazil in the round of 16, Kaishu Sano's first international goal putting you ahead before Vinícius Júnior equalized and Gabriel Martinelli won it in stoppage time (1). That is five straight World Cups where Japan held a lead in the knockout round and went home.

Ange Postecoglou put it plainly: "It's heartbreaking for Japan. As a nation, they just feel they have to break through this barrier and now they have to wait another four years to do that but that's the World Cup. The great teams find a way to win and that's where Japan need to get to" (1).

Ayase Ueda was distraught after the final whistle, convinced this team had a genuine shot at winning it all.

Postecoglou: the name that won't go away

John Duerden at the Guardian is not the first to say it, but the timing sharpens the argument: Ange Postecoglou is exactly what Japan need (1). The Australian has built his reputation on aggressive, front-foot football and turning underdog nations into teams that believe they belong.

With Moriyasu's future uncertain, the question is whether the JFA can make a hire that ambitious. The fanbase is tired of being brave losers.

Moriyasu taking time after third knockout exit

Hajime Moriyasu leaves this tournament as the Asian coach with the most World Cup matches in history, but also a third consecutive round-of-16 defeat after holding a lead. He told reporters he will take time to consider his future (3). He spoke of pride in his side's competitive spirit, though the gap Brazil exploited in the final minutes is what the next cycle must address.

Premier League circling Nakamura

Keito Nakamura's stock rose in this tournament. Premier League clubs are now registering interest in the winger after his World Cup performances (2). No names yet, no offers, just clubs watching. Expect that to move fast now that Japan are out.