The Japanese national team's official social media account posted head coach Hajime Moriyasu's post-match comments on September 24, 2026.

Moriyasu stated: "This match marks a new beginning. The team hopes to build on its previous achievements, consider future goals, and have everyone challenge themselves for victory and growth."

"Against a strong Uruguay side, Japan struggled to play as intended for a period. However, when Japan actively regained possession and controlled the ball, the team took the initiative and attacked the opponent's goal. When it needed to maintain possession, it stuck to its style of play. Overall, the team showed a positive and proactive approach."

Although the team made eight substitutions, which could sometimes lead to a disjointed tactical system, Japan maintained overall cohesion and ultimately scored a goal from the defensive line.

Moriyasu hopes the team will continue to uphold the shared philosophy established in this match while constantly challenging itself and pursuing further growth.

He specifically highlighted young players and those with limited previous playing time, such as Koki Matsuki, Koki Sano, Yui Suzuki, and Kento Shiogai.

These young players have developed steadily through the grassroots and reserve teams, fostering healthy competition among the squad.

Moriyasu stated: "As the team's cycle progresses, the player lineup constantly changes. While there are challenges when making demands on players during matches, overall, the team completed a very good challenge."

Furthermore, this match was played on a weekday during a long holiday, yet many fans still came to the stadium, turning it blue and cheering for the team. Moriyasu believes it was the fans' support that kept the players fighting until the end.

Finally, Moriyasu reflected: "It has been 15 years since the Great East Japan Earthquake. I hope this match can provide encouragement and strength to those still working on reconstruction and recovery."

The players completed the match with a commitment to giving their best as a team, hoping this sentiment reaches more people.

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