Okawa admits he just learned Spain-Argentina final after Japan's World Cup exit

Japan striker Kohei Okawa (28, NEC Nijmegen) stunned reporters on July 18 by admitting he only just learned Spain and Argentina would face off in the FIFA World Cup final after Japan’s early exit. Speaking after a youth soccer clinic in Yokohama, he said, “I just found out now.”

Japan bowed out at the Round of 32 stage and returned home on July 2. Okawa described a prolonged struggle to accept the reality of defeat. Last result: Brazil 2-1 Japan (2026-06-29). Japan’s recent form reads 2 wins, 2 losses, 1 draw over the last five matches (LDWDW), while defenders Shota Saito and midfielder Keito Nakamura remain sidelined.

The weight of defeat - “A long time couldn’t accept reality”

Okawa reflected on his post-tournament mindset, saying, “There was a long period when I couldn’t accept reality. Even after coming home, I kept feeling like it was all over. I realized how mentally drained I was.”

He usually uses the off-season’s one-week break to reset, but this time “it took longer to switch gears,” he admitted. Still, he says time has helped him move forward.

During a talk with young players, he declared his intent to return: “Scoring in the World Cup is my biggest dream. Since I couldn’t do it this time, I feel like God is telling me to aim for next time. In four years, I’ll make sure to get on the scoresheet.”

Why he didn’t know the final - avoiding the pain

Okawa’s admission that he only just learned the final matchup came as a surprise. He said, “I haven’t been following the World Cup much,” echoing teammate Keito Nakamura, who said he couldn’t bring himself to watch the broadcasts after Brazil’s win.

While understandable, his avoidance highlights the emotional toll the early exit took on the squad.

Looking ahead - “World Cup disappointment can only be erased by the World Cup”

Okawa will return to the Netherlands to sharpen his scoring instincts. “World Cup disappointment can only be erased by the World Cup,” he said, reaffirming his resolve for the 2030 edition.

Just two weeks after elimination, Okawa’s shift in mindset bodes well for Japan’s future - a positive sign as the team turns the page toward 2030.