Japanese Captain Doesn't Want To Kendur When Opposing The Indonesian National Team

JAKARTA - Japan's National Team (Timnas) captain, Wataru Endo, emphasized his team's ambition to prove himself as the strongest team in Group C of the Third Round of Asian Zone 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.

He threw a signal that he didn't want to relax when he hosted Indonesia in the group's last match at Suita Stadium, Osaka Prefecture, Tuesday, June 10, 2025, Indonesian Western Time (WIB) afternoon.

"This is the last match (in the Third Round of 2026 World Cup Qualifiers). I would like to convey a message that our team is the strongest."

"As a team, we will enjoy it," Endo said at a press conference before the match.

The meeting of the two teams did not determine anymore because each one had guaranteed a go to a different phase.

Japan has secured tickets for the 2026 World Cup finals. They packed 20 points from nine matches and their position at the top of Group C could not be shifted.

Indonesia on the other hand, ensures the steps to the Fourth Round of the 2026 World Cup Qualification with 12 points from nine parties.

Even so, Endo did not want to see the position in the standings. He instead saw a 0-1 defeat to Australia last week which put the Blue Samurai squad under pressure.

Therefore, fighting the Indonesian national team will be used as a moment of revival and proof of Japan.

"Indeed, we feel pressured after losing to Australia. However, against Indonesia, we want to show our level continues to increase," said the Liverpool player.

Japan is expected to field several new players in the match later. In the match against Australia, the Blue Samurai team also gave several new players the opportunity to make their debuts.

Endo said their appearance in the training session was very positive and would provide fresh energy in the game.

"Many new players performed very well. We will show the best through them and continue to train as a team," he said.