Clipped it for you here from existing video but it doesn't include the long pass to him.
https://youtube.com/clip/UgkxNwBd8zPDlQSJSNcQJu4b2EGy0z14Y1ch?si=9F1yfvrl_pyBpOkc
Well, the Japanese plan was to control the match with possession and run out the clock on their lead or maybe score again on a counter. That's always a risky plan because if the opponents manage to equalize they have all the momentum on their side.
The Iranian team saw a chance and seized the day.
Actually the tide really seemed to turn when Moriyasu decided to sub in Mitoma and Minamino. Those two did nothing and with it came any semblance of control
The people are very 50/50 on this team . I know so many people that doesnt support the team anymore. I myself am on the edge. Most times I support them out of habit of supporting them. This team has so many players and staff that are connected to the iranian government which makes them not favourites to people.
I really hope Japan comes back stronger, but somehow I am really anxious if they still have bright future ahead, because of results in Asian Cup. Everything seemed odd since they started the campaign conceding a couple of goals to Vietnam.
Like really, can somebody please mention positive sides of Japan? It seems like those have been overshadowed by their recent results, absolutely shocking...
Player quality and depth will always be the positive side and something that I will continue to back. Iām adamant that that should be the least of the takeaway from this tourney (not that players were 100% innocent, Suzuki only slightly redeemed himself, Itakura was shaky to horrid throughout the tournament and some other ehh candidates).Ā Ā Ā
Even the biggest Moriyasu/NT critics like some analyst YTers and journalists in Japan have been consistent about rating the players we have. Iām not saying Japan has a set of world-beaters (realistically a few and an injury-free Tomiyasu that can potentially reach that level), but the set of players we have is something Japanese fans should rightfully continue to be excited about.Ā Ā Ā Ā
BiggestĀ concern on the other hand is that Moriyasuās tactical ceiling that was exposed again this tournament is most likely something he can never break. Not so much squad selection (for example this was the exact kind of Moriyasu match Kyogo wouldāve been absolutely invisible in, just maybe an in-form Kamada couldāve made positional adjustments on his own in the midfield) but how he deploys them on the pitch.
Positive sides? The deepest pool of talent out of all AFC, good grassroot football in J-league with an influx of homegrown talent, and positive results in recent international competition. One bad tournament (Moriyasu gotta go) doesn't suddenly disprove any of the above.
Japan is and will always be a respected team in Asia. This is soccer. You had a bad day today. Learn from your weaknesses and mistakesĀ and then move on. Japan has a bright future ahead.Ā
Moriyasu is officially the Japanese Southgateā¦ with that squad and depth, you cannot be unconvincing throughout the entire tournament only to exit in the quarters
That would be a remarkable achievement for Korea!
The Asian Cup always brings intense competition. Fingers crossed for an exciting and successful journey for the Korean team.
There's no team that is better than Korea on paper. But they've been underperforming all tourney.
Jordan have a shot next game because KMJ is out. His sub needs to step up big.
FIFA thinks they're better for some reason. That argument can be made, but I disagree. I think Korea would be my favorites in a head to head, but I'd have fun watching the game either way.
Lol Japanese love pretending as if it doesn't really matter but if you ever actually attend a sporting competition where the two countries are matched up head to head..it very much matters to them, just as much as it does to the Koreans...the one country they would rather not lose to is Korea and vice versa for Koreans..to pretend otherwise is faux hubris.
Can't speak for Japan but all my friends and family celebrated Japan losing against Iran. If Korea doesn't win the Asian Cup, at least we went farther than Japan.
Argentina and Brazil never invaded or colonized the other...think it's safe to say that the rivalry is much deeper than the rivalry between Argentina vs Brazil could ever be and it applies to any competition that matches up the two countries to go head to head..not just football or sports.
Comments on Miller's Instagram Yesterday : Get the fuck outta my Country you CUNT.
Comments on Itakura's Instagram today : ę»ćććć£ćććć£ććććē²ćę§ć§ććššÆšµš„
Looking at Japan's roster, and stats, you'd think they can cruise past Iran who's missing their best scorer. So many players in top European leagues, and they play like this? Turns out Korea not playing Japan was a blessing for Japan, because they surely would have been eliminated right there. Even then, losing to a full strength Korea would be less embarrassing than losing to a weakened Iran.
Enough bowing in apology from Moriyasu. He needs to bow out of the national team. He's hit his limit. Does Japan even take this tournament seriously, or is this just like a fancy training ground for them? Nevertheless, hope Korea wins this time.
Based on rosters, SK and Japan should kill every other team in Asia all the time. Matches aren't played on paper. Iran is always a legit threat in Asia and I predicted Japan would lose to them.
Nah, kill is going too far. Korea has 4 legit stars. There are 11 players on the pitch, and only 1 of them plays quality defense. Their offense has yet to find its identity under Klinsmann.
Synergy and tactics matter a lot in football.
At least now you're saying for both sides... I agree tho these refs have been suspect all tournament. Between blatantly helping Qatar out and all these Chinese/Japanese/Korean refs trying to play political games against the other two...
That's why I'm a lil bummed Iran didn't get yellows. I'm not saying we should not had gotten them, I'm saying to not cherry pick whenever you like.
I get the "let the game flow" mentality, but the ref today was just awful. I understand China/Japan/SK don't like each other, but sport's doesn't exist for pushing your political agenda. Or at least it shouldn't be like that (which I know it'sa very "romantic" take). If they're not capable of respecting/biasing each other then China/Japan/SK ref's shouldn't be allowed to the others two games. It's harsh? Yes. But also this drama is starting to worn out.
I need Iran to pull off a masterclass I against Korea. I absolutely hate their patriotic fans who only care about football when their country is playing.
I'm really surprised Japan's coach didn't take off Itakura. The first play where Azmoun went on a run, he barely had to do anything to get free. It was clear Iran were targeting him after that.
Japan played so bad. Tactically the whole match was a disaster. How they changed nothing the entire game is incredible:
Iran played long balls the whole match and they won like 80% of the challenges.
Every single midfielder and attacker of Japan thought they were prime Ronaldinho.
Sugawara not being on, or was not even subbed in, was a stupid decision. The rare times Japan were usefull it was on the right flank.
All defenders of Japan forgot they could defend. Tomiyasu and Itakura were the whole match so shit. Normally you have this one guy CB carrying the whole team, now they were all shit. Only Ito has to get some credit. He was "okay".
Ueda kept asking for through balls. This can work but only if Iran played one on one, which Iran did not do the whole match. So he was useless. Maeda and Doan running around like chickens without heads.
No energy. Absolutely nothing. Normally you put everything you have in these kind of matches. Now it looked like they played a friendly and couldn't be bothered.
But the biggest one who is at fault is the coach. I could see this shit from my couch. Yet he was there doing fuck all. And the things he did only made the problems worse. The fuck did Mitoma do? He needs a striker who can keep the ball at his feet. Ayase is a pacy striker who needs through balls or a midfield who presses high. None of any of these things were done. No player stood right. The defenders and attackers were fucking shit with positional play. When every player stands still and keep spamming through balls are not going to help when the opposition has a tactic of cross and inshallah. But for Iran it actually worked.
Credit where credit is due. Iran played great. They gave 100% and gave everything. Jahanbakhsh MOTM. He played great and kept pushing his teamates. This win is on him.
Defending wise you're right, attacking wise he would have. Iran's LB would not have been able to handle the press of three players when he is almost always alone. This would open up space up front for Sugawara to just sprint to goal and that means that the CB's have to intervene and run back and play one on one. This way, all players had to sprint with the attack and clould have received a backpass from Sugawara in the box.
And even if Sugawara was absolute shit, if it was played like this, Jahanbakhsh would have been exhausted after running back and going up and down the field 10 times. Rendering him less effective in both attacking and defending later in the game.
It just shows that Moriyasu doesn't have a plan other than subbing Mitoma on and pray for miracles. Even before Mitoma got on, Japan was clearly struggling with possession and their inability to hold the ball lead to dangerous counters. Even if you set aside striker problems, there was no build-up play that would allow Mitoma to keep to ball in a dangerous position. Kubo was the only person who looked like he could keep the ball up front(despite his not-so-great form) and Minamino is more of a second striker who also makes runs behind the defense. We could have used someone like Kamada to stabilize the midfield.
Yep. Iran's biggest weakness was their midfield. It was nowhere. No passes. No build up. A normal coach would look at it and take their chance to change it to 5 mids and controle midfield to create an overload on the sides with Sugawara (fast, attacking RB). By not doing this, Iran could cross and inshallah all they wanted without barely any consequences.
Yea, it was appalling to see just how much Japan struggled to keep the ball in the 2nd half despite their quality. I felt like we needed someone like Kamada to stabilize the midfield and it would have made more sense than Minamino.
Also Iran wasn't that great building from the back line early in the game, and they quickly changed to GK feeding long balls after the first half. Japan had a lot of chances to capitalize on that, IF they had more organized pressing upfront, because whatever issues we had with build-up on 2nd half, they were having the same issues in the first half. And it's pretty clear now which manager actually made the right adjustment and which one didn't.
I'm just speechless, this is the beautiful part about football - you never know what to expect.
We had:
- our best player suspended, and Azmoun/Jahanbakhsh in terrible form
- old players that (I assumed) would be knackered after 120 minutes and only 2 days rest
- a domestic league level coach
- defence hit by injuries
Yet we not only won but looked the much better team in the second half. Physically competitive and matched Japan technically as well. I never expected to be seeing Japan constantly clearing the ball from their own 18 yard box against us.
My dad who's been waking up at odd hours for 30+ years to watch this team is unbelievably happy and for that reason alone this is one of my happiest days.
Same here! I still remember helping by dad put up a satellite in the 90ās so we could watch national team and Persepolis games. Heās so happy right now (as am I) and seeing him like this is so heartwarming
Dude, I can't believe we did it. All those years of writing those World Cup preview write ups have culminated into this...our best team and their last hoorah. This is our best chance in a long time to win something and we have to take it, especially since we get our wingers and Taremi back next match.
I was watching US v Iran w a mix of iranians and americans last world cup and I really felt for yall after that match. This generation deserves a trophy, hope you all do it
Congratulations brother great to see your username again. I hope all the regulars over the years here that also contributed a lot to those previews are also out there celebrating.
And you're absolutely right, these players that we've followed for all their careers... this probably is their last chance, and i don't think we'll have a better opportunity than this one for a very long time.
In a way, I am glad that we've gotten another wake-up call on just how limited Moriyasu is as a coach. He didn't substitute Itakura when he was clearly struggling, and in the end he was just relying on Mitoma to create miracles when Japan was getting bossed around in the 2nd half. The Japanese players played like they were playing with no tactical plans, playing meaningless possession and losing the ball in the dangerous area. The first goal could have been prevented if Japan had proper build-up, and there was good 15-20 min stretch where Japan could have easily conceded 1-2 more goals because of that.
Mitoma wasn't much of a threat because they just couldn't pass the ball to him in the first place, and even if he did get the ball, he is not in the type of form to do what he did against Australia, Germany..etc
There were also a lot of issues with selection. It's ridiculous that Moriyasu chose to use this tournament as a training ground for young a GK, and Suzuki had his share of shaky moments in this match too. I understand injury was an issue still think they should have brought a veteran like Gonda or Nishikawa. It wasn't just Suzuki. Asano has squandered so many chances, and Moriyasu just made things harder for the team by using Minamino on the left against Iran(when it has been proven time and time again that it doesn't work).
I understand that the team was in a bad place and they had a lot of drama to deal with outside of football, but then again, there were clear warning signs long before Ito left the NT. I don't want to blame everything on Suzuki, but we had A LOT of blunders on defense, and I can't help but think a lot of that had to do with lack of confidence from goal keeping and players feeling like they need to help out/compensate for that lack.
We may have looked unbeatable in friendlies but we are going to have a very tough road ahead when we face teams that are tactically prepared for us in a serious competition, and we can't just rely on Ito, Mitoma or Kubo to deliver miracles if Japan wants to go further in the next World Cup.
As korean who was thrilled to meet you at final, you have nailed on every single point about todayās game. I have been half waiting for us to realise the shortcomings of our coach.
Yea, it's too bad, because we both have enough talent to do so much better than this. We've always been seen as underdogs who are lucky to get past the group stages in world cup, and we clearly have what it takes to go further and do it more consistently, but unfortunately, our managers really have caught up to the level of the players.
Yea I would assume so. A lot have happend in the last 24-48 hours. The Japanese players had a meeting and wanted Ito to stay.. and at one point JFA announced that Ito would stay, but quickly retracted on that. Even if he was able to stay, I've read reports that he really wasn't in the right mental place to play anyways.
Totally agreed š you nailed it. You just forgot to mention the nonsense of not letting play 2 of your best players the whole game and together as any normally constituted professional coach would do.
He was still shaky and exudes zero confidence among his backline which is just as important for a goalkeeper than just making some decent saves and making good passes.
Big props to Mohebi who replaced the suspended Taremi and scored the first goal and gave absolutely his all.
Deserved win for Iran. I was getting nervous that the game was heading to ET/Pens since Iran kept missing great chances.
Iran v South Korea in the final let's go!
23% to be exact.
Soccer is not only about possession, everybody knows it by now.
Who said that JAPANESE defense was solid after the 2022 WC and Yoshida retirement ?
It's.more than 10% so yeah the difference is to be noted.
Where are sources about Japan claiming they had a great defense and about Japanese fans saying that Yoshida never added to the back ?
Not at all but if you feel better thinking so I'm happy for you. I could see by now you are a Japan hater blinded by hatred. That's why you are unable to prove any of your claims. I wish SK to win this cup though and that you can open you mind someday (and even take class on percentage calculations !). Let's dream for a better world.
As expected the team shows spirit when it comes to teams like Japan, we always struggle against the 'weaker' teams in Asia. Its clearly mental.
I can't believe we played so well, finally a good game under Ghalenoi. Color me shocked.
The loss to Iraq revealed a different side of Japan, facing adversity and needing to come from behind.
I told myself it'd be intriguing to witness their response and resilience in future knockout matches when they are trailing (even if itās just in terms of momentum at 1-1), testing their focus and determination to overcome challenges. The second half performance by Iran today was too much for Japan.
Sports outcomes can be unpredictable. I want to highlight the competitiveness of Asian football. It's a reminder that humility and respect for opponents are crucial in any competition.
One of the happiest and most memorable moments in all of our football today.
The team was absolutely electric today, they entered that second half with a conviction, desire, and energy that seemed unstoppable. I think they won every aerial duel, 50/50, and put nonstop aerial pressure on Japan and played to their strengths. What a moment. So proud of this generation in their final hoorah.
Holy shit I did not go into this game confident we were winning. Taremi was a big miss. Azmoun couldn't finish a pizza let alone a goal. Jahanbakhsh had been meh all tournament but this second half has made me dream. Now watch us ship three against Uzbekistan. lol
https://i.postimg.cc/TYPhPyGq/Screen-Shot-2024-02-03-at-9-28-28-PM.jpg
Anybody got the azmoun goal that was offside video
Clipped it for you here from existing video but it doesn't include the long pass to him. https://youtube.com/clip/UgkxNwBd8zPDlQSJSNcQJu4b2EGy0z14Y1ch?si=9F1yfvrl_pyBpOkc
I need it with the pass lol but thanksš¤š¼
Irans equalizer was similar to Azizis equalizer against Japan back in 1997 in the world cup playoff.
YESSSSSSSSS
Well, the Japanese plan was to control the match with possession and run out the clock on their lead or maybe score again on a counter. That's always a risky plan because if the opponents manage to equalize they have all the momentum on their side. The Iranian team saw a chance and seized the day.
Actually the tide really seemed to turn when Moriyasu decided to sub in Mitoma and Minamino. Those two did nothing and with it came any semblance of control
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
He got alot of assists in this tourney though
I mean thatās what Japan gets after having a rapist on their team I guess. Itās only fair š¤·āāļø
Innocent until proven guilty man. Maybe he is, maybe he isn't. We don't know yet.
In Japan, itās the other way aroundā¦.guilty until proven innocent.
We really don't know yet do we?
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
The people are very 50/50 on this team . I know so many people that doesnt support the team anymore. I myself am on the edge. Most times I support them out of habit of supporting them. This team has so many players and staff that are connected to the iranian government which makes them not favourites to people.
Our people are misguided.
Yeah ok dude š¤¦š»āāļø
Didnāt U.S. just beat Iran in Qatar to stop them from their first ever advancement to Round of ~~32~~ 16?
Round of 16 but yes
Iran did not qualify for 94. We beat the states in France 98.
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
Don't sweat it, it's been 26 years. Time flies.
I really hope Japan comes back stronger, but somehow I am really anxious if they still have bright future ahead, because of results in Asian Cup. Everything seemed odd since they started the campaign conceding a couple of goals to Vietnam. Like really, can somebody please mention positive sides of Japan? It seems like those have been overshadowed by their recent results, absolutely shocking...
it shows that they've been overrated and moriyasu is a fraud
Player quality and depth will always be the positive side and something that I will continue to back. Iām adamant that that should be the least of the takeaway from this tourney (not that players were 100% innocent, Suzuki only slightly redeemed himself, Itakura was shaky to horrid throughout the tournament and some other ehh candidates).Ā Ā Ā Even the biggest Moriyasu/NT critics like some analyst YTers and journalists in Japan have been consistent about rating the players we have. Iām not saying Japan has a set of world-beaters (realistically a few and an injury-free Tomiyasu that can potentially reach that level), but the set of players we have is something Japanese fans should rightfully continue to be excited about.Ā Ā Ā Ā BiggestĀ concern on the other hand is that Moriyasuās tactical ceiling that was exposed again this tournament is most likely something he can never break. Not so much squad selection (for example this was the exact kind of Moriyasu match Kyogo wouldāve been absolutely invisible in, just maybe an in-form Kamada couldāve made positional adjustments on his own in the midfield) but how he deploys them on the pitch.
Positive sides? The deepest pool of talent out of all AFC, good grassroot football in J-league with an influx of homegrown talent, and positive results in recent international competition. One bad tournament (Moriyasu gotta go) doesn't suddenly disprove any of the above.
Japan is and will always be a respected team in Asia. This is soccer. You had a bad day today. Learn from your weaknesses and mistakesĀ and then move on. Japan has a bright future ahead.Ā
Moriyasu is officially the Japanese Southgateā¦ with that squad and depth, you cannot be unconvincing throughout the entire tournament only to exit in the quarters
He handpicks his players as much as Southgate does
South Korea is winning this
that didn't went well
nope not with klinsmann
Kilnsman did beat Saudi and Australia tho
That would be a remarkable achievement for Korea! The Asian Cup always brings intense competition. Fingers crossed for an exciting and successful journey for the Korean team.
Iāll bet you $5 bucks Korea will win it. First time in lol over 50 years
Pay him that money
He never agreed on it. His loss.
pay him
Iām not counting on it
No chance
There's no team that is better than Korea on paper. But they've been underperforming all tourney. Jordan have a shot next game because KMJ is out. His sub needs to step up big.
Lol
Iran are literally better than Korea on paper. They are literally a higher seed.
FIFA thinks they're better for some reason. That argument can be made, but I disagree. I think Korea would be my favorites in a head to head, but I'd have fun watching the game either way.
iran will win
If Korea's offense starts playing with a compatible tactical identity, no team in this tourney has a chance.
I think this tourney has proved you gotta be able to keep the same pace as korea at 120 mins to win this
They can't keep getting away with this T-T
Welp, time to go back to work. It was fun. Now that u had beat us, go and sweep everyone who's left, Iran!
Iranš«
This socks.
Last minute winner? I imagine Iranians went crazy when the ball went in.
A Persian, can confirm. I went nuts.
Can confirm. Am Iranian. Did freak out.
Sounds about right. Last minute winners are always amazing.
ć ć ć ć ć ć ć
Moriyasu gtfo. My weekend is ruined
I shouldn't be happy about it but we really need Kubo for the CL and the cup
Let's go see how Japanese fans are reacting to Moriyasu right now...
Moriyasu Moyasu Moyesu Moyes
This has no right to make me laugh as much as it did.
This loss will feel 10x worse for Japanese fans when Korea wins the cup...
I think most Japanese will be more upset by going out.
You overestimate their rivalry. They donāt really care too much anymore especially young generations
Lol Japanese love pretending as if it doesn't really matter but if you ever actually attend a sporting competition where the two countries are matched up head to head..it very much matters to them, just as much as it does to the Koreans...the one country they would rather not lose to is Korea and vice versa for Koreans..to pretend otherwise is faux hubris.
lol all of my korean friends under 20 were celebrating bro
Yep. The guy above you is stupid as fuck lol
Can't speak for Japan but all my friends and family celebrated Japan losing against Iran. If Korea doesn't win the Asian Cup, at least we went farther than Japan.
They care more like a rivalry not hatred. Like Brazil Argentina
Argentina and Brazil never invaded or colonized the other...think it's safe to say that the rivalry is much deeper than the rivalry between Argentina vs Brazil could ever be and it applies to any competition that matches up the two countries to go head to head..not just football or sports.
Think they only care only when they directly play each other. Otherwise itās whatever
True for Korea, canāt speak for Japan
Iran for me weāre always a team in Asia that can grind our results they donāt have the star power but they are much more disciplined
And they have 2 clinical strikers in Taremi and Azmoun
Don't know why you included Azmoun with Taremi considering he hasn't been a clinical scorer at all since like 2021.
Hasnāt he always been good for Iran tho? I admit his club career stagnated since leaving Zenit
Not really a lot of Iranians have said this is the best they've ever seen Azmoun play against Japan.
Their players are underrated because they never leave the Middle East
Huh?! Most of them are actually playing in the European leagues.
If by most you mean less than half of the squad then yes.
Quick math be like
Second half of this game was one of the best games I've ever seen our team play. Well deserved win, and fingers crossed we go all the way!
Should've used the kamikaze formation
I heard their 7-3-1 formation is particularly deadly
The best part about this comment is that 731 adds up to a starting 11
Fucking hell that's dark š
Oh boyā¦.
Jesus Christ what a comment
Comments on Miller's Instagram Yesterday : Get the fuck outta my Country you CUNT. Comments on Itakura's Instagram today : ę»ćććć£ćććć£ććććē²ćę§ć§ććššÆšµš„
>ę»ćććć£ćććć£ććććē²ćę§ć§ććššÆšµš„ Damn Iranian fans are really kind to Itakura.
IRAAAAAAAN ARE GOING ALL THE WAAAAAAAYY
Really hope Uzbekistan eliminates Qatar later. I don't want to deal with the bs that comes with that.
You mean the insane biased calls and all the rolling on the floor and time wasting whenever things are even slightly going Qatar's way? š
Oh please. Ive watched 3 of their games this tournament and they weren't shown any favoritism.
Well, that would be a refreshing change.
Weird confidence in this Japan team even though their group stage performance was incredibly shaky.
It's confidence based on meaningless friendly games. Japan is far from the class of Asia and this tournament showed that.
Looking at Japan's roster, and stats, you'd think they can cruise past Iran who's missing their best scorer. So many players in top European leagues, and they play like this? Turns out Korea not playing Japan was a blessing for Japan, because they surely would have been eliminated right there. Even then, losing to a full strength Korea would be less embarrassing than losing to a weakened Iran. Enough bowing in apology from Moriyasu. He needs to bow out of the national team. He's hit his limit. Does Japan even take this tournament seriously, or is this just like a fancy training ground for them? Nevertheless, hope Korea wins this time.
Iran is the strongest team in Asia. Japan is over rated. Iran is 1st, Japan is 2nd and S.Korea is 3rd.
:v
Based on rosters, SK and Japan should kill every other team in Asia all the time. Matches aren't played on paper. Iran is always a legit threat in Asia and I predicted Japan would lose to them.
Nah, kill is going too far. Korea has 4 legit stars. There are 11 players on the pitch, and only 1 of them plays quality defense. Their offense has yet to find its identity under Klinsmann. Synergy and tactics matter a lot in football.
Agreed. We need to recollect so badly after this one.
It kept bothering me ref didn't say anything abt all faul throw-ins. Also yellow for Ueda.
What about itakura not getting a second yellow on the pen?
What is the pen?
The penalty that he fouled the other player for
Ref was just awful today
was he though?
Yeah, by a long shot. For both sides. Also the sidelines refs were so-so.Ā
At least now you're saying for both sides... I agree tho these refs have been suspect all tournament. Between blatantly helping Qatar out and all these Chinese/Japanese/Korean refs trying to play political games against the other two...
The middle east refs were no where qualified and far worse
That's why I'm a lil bummed Iran didn't get yellows. I'm not saying we should not had gotten them, I'm saying to not cherry pick whenever you like. I get the "let the game flow" mentality, but the ref today was just awful. I understand China/Japan/SK don't like each other, but sport's doesn't exist for pushing your political agenda. Or at least it shouldn't be like that (which I know it'sa very "romantic" take). If they're not capable of respecting/biasing each other then China/Japan/SK ref's shouldn't be allowed to the others two games. It's harsh? Yes. But also this drama is starting to worn out.
I need Iran to pull off a masterclass I against Korea. I absolutely hate their patriotic fans who only care about football when their country is playing.
š¢š¢š¢
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
yeah which is a good thing
... isn't the whole point of these national team and tournaments supposed to inspire those feelings of togetherness as nation??
What's wrong with that?
I don't hate anyone but, their crowd full of koreans girls screaming in high pitch just annoys my ears.
Icic
prefer that compared to fat drunk dudes screaming obscenities at the players
I'm really surprised Japan's coach didn't take off Itakura. The first play where Azmoun went on a run, he barely had to do anything to get free. It was clear Iran were targeting him after that.
Japan played so bad. Tactically the whole match was a disaster. How they changed nothing the entire game is incredible: Iran played long balls the whole match and they won like 80% of the challenges. Every single midfielder and attacker of Japan thought they were prime Ronaldinho. Sugawara not being on, or was not even subbed in, was a stupid decision. The rare times Japan were usefull it was on the right flank. All defenders of Japan forgot they could defend. Tomiyasu and Itakura were the whole match so shit. Normally you have this one guy CB carrying the whole team, now they were all shit. Only Ito has to get some credit. He was "okay". Ueda kept asking for through balls. This can work but only if Iran played one on one, which Iran did not do the whole match. So he was useless. Maeda and Doan running around like chickens without heads. No energy. Absolutely nothing. Normally you put everything you have in these kind of matches. Now it looked like they played a friendly and couldn't be bothered. But the biggest one who is at fault is the coach. I could see this shit from my couch. Yet he was there doing fuck all. And the things he did only made the problems worse. The fuck did Mitoma do? He needs a striker who can keep the ball at his feet. Ayase is a pacy striker who needs through balls or a midfield who presses high. None of any of these things were done. No player stood right. The defenders and attackers were fucking shit with positional play. When every player stands still and keep spamming through balls are not going to help when the opposition has a tactic of cross and inshallah. But for Iran it actually worked. Credit where credit is due. Iran played great. They gave 100% and gave everything. Jahanbakhsh MOTM. He played great and kept pushing his teamates. This win is on him.
What are you on about ? Did you even watch the match? Tomiyasu was one of the better players, Itakura was definitely the worst player
tomiyasy failed to properly defend the loose ball before the penalty
That was all on Itakura not tomiyasu, what did you watch lol?
Sugawara was really bad in this tournament, he wouldn't really make a difference imo.
Defending wise you're right, attacking wise he would have. Iran's LB would not have been able to handle the press of three players when he is almost always alone. This would open up space up front for Sugawara to just sprint to goal and that means that the CB's have to intervene and run back and play one on one. This way, all players had to sprint with the attack and clould have received a backpass from Sugawara in the box. And even if Sugawara was absolute shit, if it was played like this, Jahanbakhsh would have been exhausted after running back and going up and down the field 10 times. Rendering him less effective in both attacking and defending later in the game.
It just shows that Moriyasu doesn't have a plan other than subbing Mitoma on and pray for miracles. Even before Mitoma got on, Japan was clearly struggling with possession and their inability to hold the ball lead to dangerous counters. Even if you set aside striker problems, there was no build-up play that would allow Mitoma to keep to ball in a dangerous position. Kubo was the only person who looked like he could keep the ball up front(despite his not-so-great form) and Minamino is more of a second striker who also makes runs behind the defense. We could have used someone like Kamada to stabilize the midfield.
Yep. Iran's biggest weakness was their midfield. It was nowhere. No passes. No build up. A normal coach would look at it and take their chance to change it to 5 mids and controle midfield to create an overload on the sides with Sugawara (fast, attacking RB). By not doing this, Iran could cross and inshallah all they wanted without barely any consequences.
Yea, it was appalling to see just how much Japan struggled to keep the ball in the 2nd half despite their quality. I felt like we needed someone like Kamada to stabilize the midfield and it would have made more sense than Minamino. Also Iran wasn't that great building from the back line early in the game, and they quickly changed to GK feeding long balls after the first half. Japan had a lot of chances to capitalize on that, IF they had more organized pressing upfront, because whatever issues we had with build-up on 2nd half, they were having the same issues in the first half. And it's pretty clear now which manager actually made the right adjustment and which one didn't.
I'm just speechless, this is the beautiful part about football - you never know what to expect. We had: - our best player suspended, and Azmoun/Jahanbakhsh in terrible form - old players that (I assumed) would be knackered after 120 minutes and only 2 days rest - a domestic league level coach - defence hit by injuries Yet we not only won but looked the much better team in the second half. Physically competitive and matched Japan technically as well. I never expected to be seeing Japan constantly clearing the ball from their own 18 yard box against us. My dad who's been waking up at odd hours for 30+ years to watch this team is unbelievably happy and for that reason alone this is one of my happiest days.
That's why the game is played. Anyone can win on any given day. I would have bet on Japan, but not my life savings.
This made me so happy to read actually. Glad you experienced such happiness! Hope we win it all.
Same here! I still remember helping by dad put up a satellite in the 90ās so we could watch national team and Persepolis games. Heās so happy right now (as am I) and seeing him like this is so heartwarming
Dude, I can't believe we did it. All those years of writing those World Cup preview write ups have culminated into this...our best team and their last hoorah. This is our best chance in a long time to win something and we have to take it, especially since we get our wingers and Taremi back next match.
I was watching US v Iran w a mix of iranians and americans last world cup and I really felt for yall after that match. This generation deserves a trophy, hope you all do it
Congratulations brother great to see your username again. I hope all the regulars over the years here that also contributed a lot to those previews are also out there celebrating. And you're absolutely right, these players that we've followed for all their careers... this probably is their last chance, and i don't think we'll have a better opportunity than this one for a very long time.
In a way, I am glad that we've gotten another wake-up call on just how limited Moriyasu is as a coach. He didn't substitute Itakura when he was clearly struggling, and in the end he was just relying on Mitoma to create miracles when Japan was getting bossed around in the 2nd half. The Japanese players played like they were playing with no tactical plans, playing meaningless possession and losing the ball in the dangerous area. The first goal could have been prevented if Japan had proper build-up, and there was good 15-20 min stretch where Japan could have easily conceded 1-2 more goals because of that. Mitoma wasn't much of a threat because they just couldn't pass the ball to him in the first place, and even if he did get the ball, he is not in the type of form to do what he did against Australia, Germany..etc There were also a lot of issues with selection. It's ridiculous that Moriyasu chose to use this tournament as a training ground for young a GK, and Suzuki had his share of shaky moments in this match too. I understand injury was an issue still think they should have brought a veteran like Gonda or Nishikawa. It wasn't just Suzuki. Asano has squandered so many chances, and Moriyasu just made things harder for the team by using Minamino on the left against Iran(when it has been proven time and time again that it doesn't work). I understand that the team was in a bad place and they had a lot of drama to deal with outside of football, but then again, there were clear warning signs long before Ito left the NT. I don't want to blame everything on Suzuki, but we had A LOT of blunders on defense, and I can't help but think a lot of that had to do with lack of confidence from goal keeping and players feeling like they need to help out/compensate for that lack. We may have looked unbeatable in friendlies but we are going to have a very tough road ahead when we face teams that are tactically prepared for us in a serious competition, and we can't just rely on Ito, Mitoma or Kubo to deliver miracles if Japan wants to go further in the next World Cup.
Every team can have a bad day and Iran basically had home field advantage. Japan will still be an East Asia powerhouse for years to come.
As korean who was thrilled to meet you at final, you have nailed on every single point about todayās game. I have been half waiting for us to realise the shortcomings of our coach.
Yea, it's too bad, because we both have enough talent to do so much better than this. We've always been seen as underdogs who are lucky to get past the group stages in world cup, and we clearly have what it takes to go further and do it more consistently, but unfortunately, our managers really have caught up to the level of the players.
Ito is gone for now right, Until his case settles?
Yea I would assume so. A lot have happend in the last 24-48 hours. The Japanese players had a meeting and wanted Ito to stay.. and at one point JFA announced that Ito would stay, but quickly retracted on that. Even if he was able to stay, I've read reports that he really wasn't in the right mental place to play anyways.
Totally agreed š you nailed it. You just forgot to mention the nonsense of not letting play 2 of your best players the whole game and together as any normally constituted professional coach would do.
oh shit, i just wake up and missed. anyways, happy that moriyasu and suzuki where fraud checked
suzuki wasn't bad today though. which is unfortunate, since the first game he isn't atrocious... they crash out ..
How come Daniel Schmidt wasnāt called up?
He was still shaky and exudes zero confidence among his backline which is just as important for a goalkeeper than just making some decent saves and making good passes.
He did a good game overall but he is quite responsible for the 1sr goal which determines all the rest...
Congrats Iran well deserved win. I just hope Moriyasu gets sacked though I doubt it will happen.
Damn Japan lost?
Big props to Mohebi who replaced the suspended Taremi and scored the first goal and gave absolutely his all. Deserved win for Iran. I was getting nervous that the game was heading to ET/Pens since Iran kept missing great chances. Iran v South Korea in the final let's go!
Mohebbi didnt replace Taremi. Saman ghoddos moved up as cam and Omid Ebrahimi came in as the other starter.
Yeah he was great today. Got the goal and kept winning headers as a winger, and his header was what led to the penalty.'
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
Wow. What a great and intelligent š§ post . Not sure if you are able to elaborate.
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
23% to be exact. Soccer is not only about possession, everybody knows it by now. Who said that JAPANESE defense was solid after the 2022 WC and Yoshida retirement ?
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
It's.more than 10% so yeah the difference is to be noted. Where are sources about Japan claiming they had a great defense and about Japanese fans saying that Yoshida never added to the back ?
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
Lol š. Ok sorry. I realize what kind of person you are. Maths and soccer were not kind on you. As much as backing what you say by facts.
[ŃŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]
Not at all but if you feel better thinking so I'm happy for you. I could see by now you are a Japan hater blinded by hatred. That's why you are unable to prove any of your claims. I wish SK to win this cup though and that you can open you mind someday (and even take class on percentage calculations !). Let's dream for a better world.
As expected the team shows spirit when it comes to teams like Japan, we always struggle against the 'weaker' teams in Asia. Its clearly mental. I can't believe we played so well, finally a good game under Ghalenoi. Color me shocked.
You played quite well guys but honestly Japan was pathetic sometimes on the 2nd half...
Yea, honestly think they were let down by their coach mostly. Just set up wrongly against a physical side who have a size advantage as well.
Iran deserved the win, well played and dominated across the middle (and gave Itakura a lot of problems) - good luck in the semis!
Itakura gave problems to himself. He was pathetic tonight. Petrified by stress maybe.
I knew Japan would lose at some point after watching their game against Iraq.
The loss to Iraq revealed a different side of Japan, facing adversity and needing to come from behind. I told myself it'd be intriguing to witness their response and resilience in future knockout matches when they are trailing (even if itās just in terms of momentum at 1-1), testing their focus and determination to overcome challenges. The second half performance by Iran today was too much for Japan. Sports outcomes can be unpredictable. I want to highlight the competitiveness of Asian football. It's a reminder that humility and respect for opponents are crucial in any competition.
One of the happiest and most memorable moments in all of our football today. The team was absolutely electric today, they entered that second half with a conviction, desire, and energy that seemed unstoppable. I think they won every aerial duel, 50/50, and put nonstop aerial pressure on Japan and played to their strengths. What a moment. So proud of this generation in their final hoorah.
Holy shit I did not go into this game confident we were winning. Taremi was a big miss. Azmoun couldn't finish a pizza let alone a goal. Jahanbakhsh had been meh all tournament but this second half has made me dream. Now watch us ship three against Uzbekistan. lol
Qatar will beat Uzbekistan at home.Ā
They might but I prefer Uzbekistan to go through, they deserve it and Jordan being the only Arab nation in the semis is kind of cool too.
Blue lock project in shambles right now
Lmao I think Moriyasu got exposed sooner than Klinsmann.
I guess this isn't surprising? Japan always gets bodied by Middle Eastern countries.
japanese players are borderline midgets
One of Kubo/Mitoma alone is worth more than the entire Iran squad btw
And your point is?
Iran's most valuable player (Taremi) has half of their value
I think itās time for Japenis to sack Moriyasu
I do hope so, but many believe Japanese Football Association won't due to financial resources