Japan U-21 football team prepares for Asian Games tournament

The Japan U-21 national football team is preparing for the Asian Games, beginning with a group stage match against Hong Kong. Key players are looking to lead the team toward a gold medal victory in the home-hosted tournament.

Midfielder Yuto Ozeki of Kawasaki Frontale, who wore the number 14 jersey—a number associated with club legend Kengo Nakamura—aims to provide leadership and offensive presence. Ozeki highlighted how Nakamura’s coaching regarding passing precision has shaped his perspective on the game. He expressed a goal of progressing to the senior national team and competing in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

Attacker Yuki Yokoyama of Cerezo Osaka also enters the tournament with increased confidence in his dribbling abilities. Following guidance from Shinji Kagawa and specialized training to improve his physical movement, Yokoyama aims to use his ability to break through defenses to impact matches, whether starting or coming off the bench.