Japan extends Moriyasu contract; France advances to World Cup semi‑finals

The Japan Football Association has offered head coach Hajime Moriyasu a half‑year extension, keeping him in charge through the 2026 Asian Cup and planning for a new manager to take over for the 2026 World Cup. The move follows Moriyasu’s tenure that led Japan to the World Cup knockout stages and a strong showing at the Asian Cup.

In the 2026 World Cup round of 16, France defeated Morocco 2‑0, with goals from Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé. The win puts France into the semi‑finals and ties Mbappé for the tournament’s top scorer with eight goals.