Japan failed to defeat their “mentor” Brazil in the World Cup Round of 32, losing 1-2 and being eliminated. After the match, many players were disappointed and shed tears. Ritsu Doan, who has played as a key player for the Blue Samurai for two consecutive World Cups, fought back tears in an interview, admitting that he was not as good as his opponents, but said that he would continue to move firmly toward the goal of winning the World Cup.
When asked after the match, “How did you feel when you were just one step away from victory?” Ritsu Doan took a deep breath, thought for a moment, and then admitted, “It was because we were not strong enough.”
When a reporter at the scene said, “Japan’s performance in these 90 minutes has proven that it can compete with Brazil and the world,” he responded, “In order for Japanese football to win the championship, all the players have given their all in preparation, so we can once again feel that the world level is really high.”
From the last tournament in Qatar to this year’s event, the Japanese team’s growth is evident to the world. Ritsu Doan boldly stated, “I think we must never change our goal of winning the championship.” He further pointed out that it is precisely because the entire team has repeatedly emphasized this grand goal that the Japanese people “walk with us like this.” He thanked the Japanese fans: “Everyone has given us outstanding support, and I want to express my gratitude to everyone.”
Like head coach Hajime Moriyasu and other players interviewed, Ritsu Doan also apologized, saying, “I am very sorry. We truly wanted to win the World Cup, and we felt everyone’s passion. We will continue to look forward and strive for the continued progress of Japanese football.”
