Japan will rely on preparation and samurai spirit against Croatia

Veteran defender Yuto Nagatomo says Japan must fight with the courage of a samurai to topple Croatia and make it to the final eight of the World Cup for the first time.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference on Sunday, the day before his team’s round of 16 clash with Croatia at Al Janub Stadium in Al Wakra, Nagatomo said it was time to start preparing.

“There are tactics that are important, but no matter how much we improve them, if we are afraid on the field, then these things are useless,” said the 36-year-old Tokyo player and four-time World Cup player.

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