Japan National Team
One of Asia's leading teams with a record four Asian Cup titles and a streak of World Cup qualifications since 1998.
The Japan national football team represents Japan in men's international football. Known as Samurai Blue, it is controlled by the Japan Football Association (JFA). Since the early 1990s, following full professionalization, it has emerged as one of Asia's leading teams.
Quick Facts
- Nickname
- サムライ・ブルー (Samurai Blue)
- Association
- Japan Football Association (JFA)
- Confederation
- AFC (Asia)
- Coach
- Hajime Moriyasu
- Captain
- Ko Itakura
- Most caps
- Yasuhito Endō (152)
- Top scorer
- Kunishige Kamamoto (75)
- FIFA maximum
- 9
Lore & Background
Prior to the late 1980s, Japan's team was largely amateur, but the sport has grown significantly since then. The team qualified for every FIFA World Cup from 1998 through 2026, holding the record for the most knockout stage appearances by an Asian team in those tournaments (2002, 2010, 2018, 2022). They hold a world record of zero red cards since their first World Cup appearance in 1998. Their main rivals are South Korea and Australia, with developed rivalries against Iran and Saudi Arabia. Japan was the first team from outside the Americas to participate in the Copa América.
Reader's Guide
The team is governed by the JFA. Key historical milestones include joining FIFA in May 1929, winning the first Asian Cup in 1992, and co-hosting the 2002 World Cup with South Korea. The squad competes against primary rivals South Korea and Australia. Japan has finished as runners-up in the 2001 FIFA Confederations Cup and the 2019 Asian Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What nickname is commonly used for this group?
Fans and media frequently refer to them as Samurai Blue due to their distinctive national identity and kit colors.
How many Asian Cup titles have they won in total?
They hold the record with four championships, securing victories during the tournaments held in 1992, 2000, 2004, and 2011.
What is their qualification history for the World Cup?
Since the early 1990s professionalization era, they have qualified for every tournament starting from the 1998 edition.
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