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Former Tottenham midfielder Rafael van der Vaart has apologised after saying Japan players 'all look alike' during a World Cup match. The remark, made while working as a pundit for NOS TV, drew criticism from anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out.
Japan are being tipped as potential dark horses for the 2026 World Cup after an impressive qualifying campaign and recent wins over top European sides. The Samurai Blue aim to reach the quarter-finals for the first time, with a blend of experience and European-based talent.
Japan captain Wataru Endo has been ruled out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to a foot injury, just days before the team's opening match against the Netherlands. The 33-year-old Liverpool midfielder failed to recover from surgery and has retired from international football.
