Japan Coach Apologizes as Endo's World Cup Hopes End

Hajime Moriyasu, the coach of Japan's national football team, expressed regret after Wataru Endo, the Liverpool midfielder and captain, was unable to participate in the World Cup due to an injury. Endo, who made his Japan debut in 2015 and has since earned 73 caps and scored four goals, announced his retirement from international football on Thursday.

Moriyasu conveyed his feelings during a press conference held in Dallas, where Japan is set to play against the Netherlands in their opening match of the tournament. He stated that it was impossible to know exactly how Endo felt about the situation, acknowledging the emotional impact on Endo and his family.

Despite the setback of Endo's absence, Moriyasu remains focused on Japan's goal of achieving World Cup glory, having previously led the team to impressive performances in past tournaments, including a notable victory over England at Wembley.