Top News

Oliver Glasner’s coaching touch appears to be working wonders at the World Cup, with Japan’s goalscorer Daichi Kamada acknowledging the influence of his former Crystal Palace and Eintracht Frankfurt boss after their thrilling draw against the Netherlands.

Kamada, who struck a crucial late equaliser for Japan in their 2-2 draw with the Dutch side at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, credited Glasner for helping him evolve into a more complete midfielder. The 29-year-old explained that the Austrian tactician’s guidance was key to his successful transition into a deeper, more defensive role that has revitalised his international career.

During his 50th appearance for the national team, Kamada became Japan’s saviour, scoring in the 88th minute to clinch a valuable point. His header, which deflected past Netherlands goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, secured a result that keeps the Samurai Blue’s hopes alive. Speaking to Reuters after the match, Kamada reflected on the significance of his goal and his journey since a disappointing outing at the previous World Cup in Qatar. “That was just lucky but for me it’s a dream come true,” Kamada said. “A goal is a goal and I could help the team. At the last World Cup I didn’t perform well, so I’m really happy to help the team.”

Under the guidance of Hajime Moriyasu, Kamada has become a key figure in Japan’s midfield. His move into a deeper position has allowed him to utilise his intelligence and tactical awareness rather than relying solely on pace. “In modern football we need more physicality and unfortunately I’m not such a fast player,” Kamada admitted. “I always wanted to play as a No. 6 but the manager said I needed to learn more defensively. Oliver Glasner gave me that chance and I’ve learned a lot about defending. Now, since we have many fast players, I play as a No. 6. The other 10 players make deep runs and create chances. I’ve always believed I could play in that role since I was 18.”

Glasner’s tactical imprint has clearly left a lasting impression on Kamada. Having previously worked together at Eintracht Frankfurt and later at Selhurst Park, the midfielder continues to draw from the Austrian’s methods. “I’ve always said his defensive tactics are among the best in the world and Japan also play the same system, 3-4-3,” Kamada noted. “I can help the team with what we can improve because I’ve learned a lot from Oliver Glasner. We’ve improved a lot, but we’re still not a top national team. We have to defend well, and his tactics really suit the Japanese national team right now.”

Looking ahead, Japan face crucial fixtures against Tunisia and Sweden as they aim to progress to the knockout stages. Kamada’s adaptability in his new role will be vital as the Samurai Blue chase qualification, especially with Sweden leading the group after a commanding 5-1 victory over Tunisia in the opening round.

As for the Netherlands, questions remain over how far they can advance in the tournament, but Japan’s resilience underlines their growing maturity on football’s biggest stage.