Endo Calls on Fans to Elevate Expectations as Japan Aims for World Cup Glory

Wataru Endo has declared that Japan has the potential to win the 2026 World Cup, following their historic qualification as the first team for the tournament. The Liverpool star urged supporters to rally around this ambitious goal.

Japan secured their place in next year’s competition in the United States, Canada, and Mexico with a commanding 2-0 victory over Bahrain on Thursday, marking a successful qualifying campaign.

Despite being four-time Asian champions, Japan has yet to progress beyond the Round of 16 in World Cup history. However, Captain Endo encouraged fans on the field after the match, urging them to have faith that the team can lift the trophy next summer.

“I felt it was important for them to hear me say it,” the midfielder expressed.

“Qualifying for the World Cup is a significant milestone, so I wanted to communicate our ambitions to the fans, not just the players.”

Goals in the second half from Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo secured Japan’s sixth win and a draw in seven matches during the third round of Asian qualifiers.

This result has ushered Japan into their eighth consecutive World Cup, and Endo mentioned that fans have begun to perceive qualification as something that is expected.

“If they believe we’re going to qualify, then we must meet those expectations,” he said.

“Our objective isn’t merely to qualify for the World Cup, but to leave a mark there—that’s the next step for Japan.”

“I want people to hold those expectations for us.”

Japan’s next qualifying match is against Saudi Arabia at home on Tuesday, followed by fixtures against Australia and Indonesia in June to complete their campaign.

Crystal Palace forward Kamada acknowledged the team’s need for continual improvement to make a significant impact next summer in North America.

“We must fully utilise our individual talents,” said the 28-year-old, who netted Japan’s opening goal just three minutes after coming off the bench.

“We have some fantastic players, but there’s always room for growth. The more we enhance our individual skills, the closer we’ll come to realising our goal.”

Kamada highlighted the strength of Japan’s squad and noted that “competition for places is highly beneficial.”

“Matches are longer these days, and success relies on more than just 11 players,” he stated.

“Naturally, I aspire to start, but there are also advantages to being a substitute.”