Takeshi Oiwa Appointed as Japan's New National Team Manager
Takeshi Oiwa has been appointed as the new manager of the Japan national team. Following their third consecutive group stage advancement in the North and Central America World Cup, despite a comeback loss to Brazil, the Japan Football Association announced on July 23 that Oiwa will take over as the new manager. Oiwa currently leads the U21 Japan team (Olympic team) and will now helm the new squad aiming for the 2030 World Cup.
Why Was Takeshi Oiwa Chosen?
Typically, after the World Cup, many candidates are discussed, and various speculations are reported. However, this time, Oiwa's appointment was announced without such speculations. While it's common for the Japan Football Association's technical committee to travel to Europe to negotiate with candidates, this decision was made with unprecedented speed.
Relation to the Asian Cup
Oiwa's tenure will begin with the Asian Cup in January next year, but in September, the U21 Japan team will participate in the Asian Games, and the full national team will have friendly matches. The Asian Cup is an Asian championship for the full national team and affects the FIFA ranking, which determines the seeding for the next World Cup. The Japan Football Association aims to win the Asian Cup.
Future Outlook
Japan is currently second in the World Cup with 5 points, recording 1 win, 2 draws, and 0 losses. In their last five matches, they have 2 wins, 2 draws, and 1 loss (LDWDW), most recently losing 2-1 to Brazil. Under Oiwa's leadership, the Japan national team is expected to become even stronger.
