Japan's Coach Moriyasu Overcome with Emotion at World Cup Anthem
June 15, 2026 · Javier GarcĂa
Japan's coach Hajime Moriyasu was seen in tears during the national anthem before their World Cup 2026 match against the Netherlands, highlighting the emotional pressure of the tournament.
Japan's football team has arrived at the 2026 World Cup with aspirations to make history, building on years of progress and impressive performances. Their debut match in Dallas against the Netherlands, despite being momentarily down 1-2, was marked by a poignant moment before kickoff. The image of Japan's head coach, Hajime Moriyasu, breaking into tears while singing the national anthem has resonated globally. 🇯🇵❤️ This display of emotion underscores the deep connection and passion involved in football, reminding fans that the sport is as much about heart as it is about skill. For Moriyasu, these tears are not a sign of weakness but rather a testament to the lingering pain from Japan's previous World Cup elimination.
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Under Moriyasu's leadership, Japan has achieved significant victories, having defeated strong teams like Spain and Germany in the 2022 Qatar World Cup before falling to Croatia in a penalty shootout during the round of 16. Since then, Japan has continued to elevate their game, securing wins over Germany, Brazil, and England in recent friendlies. However, the World Cup remains the ultimate stage, offering unique challenges and pressures. At 57 years old, Moriyasu, who previously played for the national team, deeply feels the weight of expectations. His tears at the anthem's conclusion marked the start of his second World Cup as Japan's coach, a position he has held since 2018 following the Russia World Cup. Since taking charge, Moriyasu has guided Japan through remarkable achievements, reflecting his dedication and the team's growth.
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