Philippe Troussier Appointment

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Lore & Background

Troussier took over Japan in 1998 after the 1998 FIFA World Cup. He struggled initially at the 1999 Copa América, then shifted to a youthful approach, coaching the under-20 team to runners-up at the 1999 FIFA World Youth Championship and the under-23 team to the quarter-finals of the 2000 Summer Olympics. The majority of that youth team won the 2000 AFC Asian Cup. He led Japan to the round of 16 at the 2002 FIFA World Cup, their best finish at the time.

In Their Own Story

The 1999 FIFA World Youth Championship became a turning point. After the senior team's early exit from the Copa América, Troussier took over the under-20 side. The Japanese team had a successful campaign and were runners-up within the tournament. He continued with youth teams, managing the under-23s at the 2000 Summer Olympics and guiding them to the quarter-finals. The majority of that team then went on to win the 2000 AFC Asian Cup. Troussier entered the 2002 FIFA World Cup with confidence, leading Japan to the Round of 16—at the time Japan's best ever World Cup finish.

Reader's Guide

Troussier's tenure with Japan began in 1998, not 1999. He did not pioneer the use of foreign-based players; Hidetoshi Nakata was already a key player before Troussier. The source does not specify the exact month of his appointment in 1998.

Did You Know?

• Troussier won the 2000 AFC Asian Cup with Japan.
• He led Japan to the round of 16 at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.
• He previously managed Ivory Coast, Nigeria, South Africa, and Burkina Faso national teams.