Samurai Blue, on the brink of the 2026 World Cup, gets hot take from former coach Takeshi Okada

Samurai Blue is just weeks away from the 2026 World Cup, and former manager Takeshi Okada shared his latest thoughts on MBS cooking show Oshaberi Koryori Yumiko. Okada said, "Japan has definitely gotten stronger," and called the recent draw with the Netherlands "a sign the era has changed."

What changes did Okada point out for the national side?

Okada noted that when he coached, facing the Dutch required a defensive mindset, but today most players ply their trade in Europe. "For them it's a routine opponent, like a J‑League East‑West exchange match," he explained, highlighting how European experience lifts the whole squad. Indeed, Samurai Blue have posted a 3W‑1D‑1L run in their last five games (WWWDL) and are riding a three‑match winning streak.

Recent results and injury updates

In the latest official match, Japan beat Bolivia 3‑0 on 2025‑11‑18 (Last result: Japan 3-0 Bolivia, 2025-11-18), showing the attack is clicking. However, left‑back S. Machino and midfielder T. Kubo are currently sidelined with injuries, a factor that could shape upcoming tactics.

Private anecdotes shared on the show and what lies ahead

Between bites, Okada recounted planning a Hawaiian trip for his wife’s 70th birthday. Even with flawless bookings, a string of mishaps turned the getaway into a comedy routine. When the host asked, "Are you still watching the World Cup despite your busy schedule?" Okada replied, "Of course. It’s great to see Japan holding its own against European powerhouses," reaffirming his optimism for Samurai Blue.

Challenges ahead and key points to watch

Okada predicts that as more Japanese stars compete abroad, the team’s tactics will become more versatile. Defensive stability and the return of the injured players will be decisive. Whether the coach will trial new formations in the next friendly remains unclear, but fans are already saying, "Just as Okada suggested, Samurai Blue has entered a new era."