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Japan Doubtful on Captain Endo's Fitness for World Cup Opener

A persistent foot problem has left coach Hajime Moriyasu holding off on a replacement and monitoring Endo up to the 24‑hour pre-match deadline.

Overview

  • As of June 10 Endo was taking running and passing drills in Nashville but had not completed full training after coming off at half-time in a May 31 friendly because of ongoing discomfort.
  • Moriyasu said medical reports do not rule Endo out and that the staff are waiting to decide whether to replace him before the 24‑hour cutoff ahead of Japan's June 14 match in Dallas.
  • Takumi Minamino, sidelined since December by a ruptured ACL, has joined the camp in a confirmed off-field mentor role and told reporters he is 'here 100 percent for the team.'
  • Brighton winger Kaoru Mitoma was left out of the 26-man squad after a late hamstring injury and will not travel with the players who will compete in Group F.
  • Endo's availability will directly affect Japan's midfield shape and on‑field leadership, forcing possible last-minute tactical adjustments for matches against the Netherlands, Tunisia and Sweden.