Japan has often performed best at World Cups when expectations have been low.

It narrowly lost to Belgium in the last 16 at the 2018 tournament in Russia, just two months after firing its coach.

It went to the 2014 World Cup in Brazil confident that it could make a splash, but returned home early after a dismal display in the group stage.

Defender Yuto Nagatomo, who has played at a record four World Cups, said: "We have improved, but if you overestimate your own ability, and are too pleased with yourself, that's when it all starts to fall apart."

The 38-year-old, who has won 142 caps for Japan, added: "I personally experienced that at the World Cup in Brazil, and I think that's the danger.

"It's OK for everyone to know that they are good players, but you have to back it up every day in training."

Japan cannot be accused of lacking ambition, with Endo calling for fans to buy into their goal of winning the World Cup in an on-pitch address after sealing qualification.

That may be seen as unrealistic by some, but as Spain and Germany found out in Qatar, Japan is a threat.

"What's important from this point is not the results, but the process," said Endo.

"Until now, we've been trying to qualify, so we've needed to get results.

"If we want to win the World Cup, how we use our time between now and next summer's tournament is crucial."

AFP