In an international friendly on September 24, Japan defeated Uruguay 3-1. After the match, Japan national team head coach Hajime Moriyasu was interviewed on the sidelines.

Congratulations on your 3-1 victory over Uruguay, a dramatic win.

Thank you. The players are not dwelling on the past, but truly fighting for our future goals. Today, here at Miyagi Stadium, and everyone watching on TV—many people cheered us on, and the players persevered until the very end. Thank you all for your support.

Matsunoki and Shiobe scored their first goals for the national team, and Ueda scored the goal that sealed the victory. What do you think of these goals?

Yes. First, everyone wanted to challenge themselves, play to their strengths, and aim for goals. Although the game was tough, they showed their capabilities. Matsunoki Kuryu, who made his debut and scored his first goal, and Shiobe Kento, who also scored his first goal, truly delivered, and I think they displayed the unique drive of young players, which is great. I believe Ayase Ueda, as a forward, proved through his performance that he is leading the Japanese team.

Japan still has three more matches ahead (against Venezuela, Ecuador, and the Kirin Challenge Cup final). Please share your outlook on these upcoming games.

Alright. We need to control possession better and compete more aggressively. I think we must focus on these areas because these strong international teams are formidable opponents. In this situation, we must persevere tenaciously, unite as a team, fight to the end, and strive for victory.

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