On October 3rd (Thursday), SAMURAI BLUE (Japan National Team) coach Hajime Moriyasu announced the squad that will play against Saudi Arabia and Australia in the FIFA World Cup 26 Asian Final Qualifiers (Third Qualifying Round). Yuki Ohashi (Blackburn Rovers) was selected for the first time, along with Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton & Hove Albion FC) and Wataru Endo (Liverpool FC). The game against Saudi Arabia will be played on Thursday, October 10th in Jeddah.

In the FIFA rankings, Japan is in 16th place, Saudi Arabia is in 56th place, and Australia is in 25th place, giving Japan an advantage. However, Saudi Arabia is in 2nd place in their group with 1 win and 1 draw at this tournament, and Japan is in 2nd place in the group from the last time three years ago. They have been struggling, losing all three away matches, including the final qualifying round of the tournament.

Additionally, Australia changed their coach after finishing the September qualifying round with one draw and one loss. Tony Popovich, who once played for Sanfrecce Hiroshima and is a former colleague of Coach Moriyasu's when he was a player, has been appointed as coach and is aiming for a comeback.

Coach Moriyasu said, ``Whether you're a young player or a veteran, as long as you're able to produce results and make your presence felt, you have a chance.'' He added, I want him to demonstrate what he usually does on the national team stage.'' I'm talking.

Regarding Endo, who has had limited opportunities to play for his club this season, the Japan national team coach flatly stated, ``I'm not worried.'' ``He has had great experience so far, making good decisions and making good decisions.He made the right decisions in the two games in September.There are no problems at all.''He has full confidence in him.