Endo stated that Japan would attack Indonesia’s defense from the first minute in order to achieve victory.
Japanese captain Wataru Endo emphasized that they had no other choice but to win over the Indonesian national team in the final Group D match of the 2023 Asian Cup at Al Thumama Stadium, Wednesday (24/1) evening WIB.
Endo admitted that Japan started the match not well. Even Japan had difficulty keeping up with Iraq throughout the first half, so Aymen Hussein was able to score two goals.
Article continues below
Japan improved their performance in the second half. However, Endo’s header from a corner kick towards the end of the match was unable to save Japan from defeat. Even though it was bitter, Endo accepted the defeat.
“We didn’t start the first half well, and the opponent had a lot of momentum. “It was a tough fight, because we were beaten by our opponents in the first round,” said Endo.
“In the second half, we were in a situation where we had to score, and we showed a goal-scoring attitude until the end. But we have conceded two goals. We have no choice, but to accept the results. So we have to change things properly [di laga berikutnya].”
Endo added that victory over Indonesia in the final match was an obligation for Japan to win a ticket to the Top 16. Endo promised that Japan would play more aggressively from the first minute.
“We had no choice but to win [melawan Indonesia]. There are some tactical aspects, but I want to get back to basics and fight. “As a team, we only need to get three points, so we will try our best to maintain the momentum from the start and win,” stressed Endo.
A not much different statement was made by Ritsu Doan. The midfielder for the German club SC Freiburg said that the Samurai Blue team would be more alert against Indonesia, because the defeat to Iraq was a valuable lesson.
“Many people say we are the strongest team, but I think the key is whether we can survive in this tournament or not. We will discuss it as a team, and make changes in the right direction. I want to play the next match in a good way,” added Doan.
2024-01-19 15:31:40
#Wataru #Endo #choice #win #Indonesian #National #Team #Goal.com #Indonesia
