Why Japan's FIFA World Cup Squad In Mexico Changed Training Sites?

Published 5 June 2026 · sports

Why Japan's FIFA World Cup Squad In Mexico Changed Training Sites? Published By, Last Updated: June 05, 2026, 13:15 IST FIFA World Cup in North

Why Japan's FIFA World Cup Squad In Mexico Changed Training Sites? Published By, Last Updated: June 05, 2026, 13:15 IST FIFA World Cup in North America starts on June 11 and Japan's first game is against the Netherlands in Dallas three days later. Rapid Read Japanese footballers take part in a training session in Monterrey. (AP Photo) Japan’s World Cup preparations have got off to a turbulent start, with the team forced to change training venues twice in Mexico because of poor pitch conditions, according to Japanese media. Hajime Moriyasu’s side arrived in Mexico this week and initially planned to train at a practice field owned by Tigres UANL in Monterrey.

However, recent bad weather had left the pitch in poor condition, prompting the team to switch to a field reserved for Japan’s under-19 squad, the Sports Hochi newspaper reported. The move proved only a temporary solution. Unhappy with the quality of the second venue, Japan relocated again on the following day, this time to a training ground used by Club de Futbol Monterrey, according to the report. Despite the disruption, Japan’s technical director Masakuni Yamamoto said the squad had remained unfazed by the logistical challenges. “We came to this conclusion (to change practice venues) because we searched for a better environment," he said, according to Japanese media.

“It’s because of bad weather, so you cannot help it. We want to make sure we prepare thoroughly." The World Cup in North America begins on June 11, with Japan opening their campaign against the Netherlands in Dallas three days later. The team is expected to move to its tournament base camp in Nashville, Tennessee, early next week, where preparations are set to continue. “We have been told that all the preparations are going smoothly in Nashville," Yamamoto said. Japan will also take on Sweden and Tunisia in Group F. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit About the Author Feroz Khan Feroz Khan has been covering sports for over 12 years now and is currently working with Network18 as Principal Correspondent.

He embarked on his journey in 2011 and has since acquired vast experience... Read More First Published: June 05, 2026, 13:15 IST News sports football Why Japan's FIFA World Cup Squad In Mexico Changed Training Sites? Disclaimer: Comments reflect users’ views, not News18’s. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy Loading comments...