Japan's football association has publicly stated that a semifinal run is the target for their 'golden generation' at the expanded 2026 World Cup. With a squad boasting talent across the Premier League, Bundesliga, and La Liga, the Blue Samurai are widely considered among the strongest Asian sides ever assembled. Head coach Hajime Moriyasu has overseen a 22-match unbeaten run dating back to the 2024 Asian Cup.