The 2026 World Cup is here, and the Samurai Blue aren't just looking to participate—they're looking to dominate. Led by captain Takefusa Kubo and masterminded by Hajime Moriyasu, Japan enters the tournament with a high-octane 3-4-2-1 system featuring stars like Kaoru Mitoma and Wataru Endo. From their surgical possession game to their "giant-killing" reputation, we break down why Japan is the ultimate dark horse in North America. We dive deep into the tactics, the squad depth, and the bold ambition of a nation ready to make history. Can they become the first Asian team to lift the trophy, or will the traditional powers hold them back?
2026 FIFA World Cup, Japan National Team, Takefusa Kubo, Samurai Blue, Soccer Podcast Analysis.