Japan is channeling its energy toward the "next World Cup" despite being eliminated, while Korea faces continuing fallout over its coach and football association after crashing out in the group stage. British media compared the two nations' post-World Cup situations and argued that "Korea should build a long-term football system like Japan."
"Japanese Football, Most Impressive Among Asian Teams"
The British daily The Guardian recently reviewed the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America in an article titled "Japan was a model to follow, but this World Cup was a bleak tournament for Asian teams," offering a contrasting assessment of Japan's and Korea's performances.
The Guardian named Japan the most impressive Asian team of the tournament. Japan drew 2-2 with the Netherlands and 1-1 with Sweden in the group stage, and defeated Tunisia 4-0 to advance to the round of 32 as the runner-up in Group E. In the round of 32 match against Brazil held on Nov. 30, Japan lost 1-2 after leading, but earned praise for showing competitiveness, including scoring the opening goal against a title contender.
The Guardian noted in particular that "the Japanese football model, based on long-term vision, patience and fighting spirit, is a case worth referencing for other countries," adding that "its value has become more persuasive through recent achievements."
Indeed, the Japan Football Association expressed its determination toward its next goal immediately after elimination. Through its official social media on Nov. 5, the association said, "We did not reach our goal of winning the championship, but the time we fought alongside our fans until the end will remain in everyone's heart," adding, "We will use this experience as a foundation to challenge for the top of the world. We grow stronger because we have a dream." The association plans to begin preparations for the 2027 Asian Cup, while also considering extending its partnership with head coach Hajime Moriyasu, whose contract is nearing expiration.
Why Korea Was "Most Disappointing Team"
By contrast, the assessment of Korea was far more severe. The Guardian named Korea the "most disappointing team" of the tournament, noting that "considering their objective strength, they should naturally have advanced past the group stage." The outlet analyzed that after their win over the Czech Republic, Korea's performances against Mexico and South Africa were listless and fell far short of expectations.
The outlet did not confine Korea's football problems to on-field performance. It diagnosed that structural problems are recurring, including the fairness controversy that erupted during the appointment of former coach Hong Myung-bo and the way the Korea Football Association operates, calling for transparency and reform within the association. It stressed that ahead of next year's Asian Cup, Korea and other Asian countries should focus on building long-term systems like Japan rather than short-term results.
The Korean national team continues to face fallout after former coach Hong Myung-bo resigned to take responsibility for the group-stage elimination. Amid this, reports have emerged that Japan is showing interest in the former coach.
Japanese outlet Tokyo Sports reported on Nov. 1 that "J-League clubs are showing interest in former coach Hong Myung-bo, who recently stepped down from the Korean national team." While analyzing that worsening domestic public opinion and pressure from political circles make it difficult for him to continue his coaching career in Korea, the outlet also introduced that Japanese football circles highly rate his leadership and character.
Tokyo Sports, citing a J-League official, reported, "Coach Hong has excellent character and is a figure friendly to Japan," adding, "Since he is first-class as a coach, it is entirely possible for him to make a fresh start in Japan." It added, "There will be no shortage of J-League clubs that want him."
Hong is a familiar figure to Japanese fans, having played for Shonan Bellmare and Kashiwa Reysol during his playing career. In particular, he was recognized for his leadership at Kashiwa, where he even served as captain.
