In any case, the opponent has been warned: “If someone beats Spain and Germany, it can’t be a coincidence,” said Croatian team boss Zlatko Dalic.
The Japanese have all lost their previous three round of 16 games. The defeat four years ago in Russia against Belgium is particularly reminiscent, as after a 2-0 lead they were eliminated 2-3. “Some scenes still come to mind. The past four years have been very tough,” said full-back Yuto Nagatomo. They now want to make history against Croatia. “I think we have a great chance to win,” said midfielder Daichi Kamada.
Japan has accumulated the least possession of the ball over the course of the tournament. “This is the most enduring and persistent opponent,” explained Dalic. His team should reflect this virtue. “They will apply the philosophy of the samurai warriors. So will we.”
Source: Nachrichten
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