MAYA Yoshida is hoping for a controversy-free Asian Cup final against Qatar today after ugly scenes during Japan’s semi-final win against Iran.
The Saints defender has captained Japan to within 90 minutes of a fifth Asian Cup.
But their outstanding 3-0 win against the favourites was marred by the behaviour of Iran’s players, who lashed out at Japan’s players in frustration.
“If (the tournament) is broadcast all over the world, you don’t want to see any stupid things, especially after the game,” he added.
“We are representing Asia under the hashtag #bringingasiatogether -- so it’s important to represent Asia by playing good football and with fair play.”
Yoshida knows that winning another Asian Cup would be a huge boost to Japanese football,.
“If we can get a result here it will get us more attention back home and it will affect the sports culture in Japan,” he told Reuters.
“I really want to win this fifth title for Japan because we’re such a good group under a great coach and with great team mates and I want to spend more time with these team mates.
“Now that the team is changing to a new generation, if we can get the title here it’s going to be a big step forward for Japan football.
“I expect both teams to play with 100 percent effort and with fair play and make a good game and show the whole world how we play. That would make another step, not only for Japan, but for Asian football.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here