According to Japanese media outlet Sponichi, Japan defeated New Zealand 2-1 in the Kirin Cup final, with manager Hajime Moriyasu explaining the decision to switch to a four-back defensive formation.

Departing from the three-back defensive system used since the AFC Asian Cup 2024, Japan deployed a four-back formation. This marked the first time since a match against North Korea in March 2024 that Japan started with four defenders—a gap of approximately two years and seven months. Moriyasu also used a four-back setup during his first stint as Japan manager, beginning in 2018.

He stated: "This is about increasing our tactical options and testing our players. To prepare for the Asian Cup, we need to be flexible not just during matches, but also strive to gain an advantage from the start against any opponent."

Moriyasu revealed that the coaching staff had decided to use the four-back formation for the fourth match even before the current training camp began. He explained: "Regarding the fourth match, we discussed with the coaching staff and prepared to test and expand our tactical variations." Moriyasu added: "The players did well by challenging themselves through a different approach than they've used recently."

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