Japan don finally find the striker wey dem don dey search since long time. Ayase Ueda, the 27-year-old Feyenoord forward, don become the main weapon for Samurai Blue as dem prepare to face Brazil for World Cup 2026 Round of 32.
Ueda don show say im fit perform for big stage. For group stage, im score two goals and give one assist for the 4-0 victory against Tunisia. That match make am become first Japanese player to score brace for World Cup tournament.
Before this World Cup, Ueda don already prove im worth for club level. For Feyenoord for Dutch league, im score 25 goals for 31 league matches for 2025-26 season. Plus one more goal for Europa League. Dem statistics show say im be one of the most successful Japanese strikers for Europe.
Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu dey use 3-4-2-1 formation with Ueda as lone striker. Im ability to make runs behind defenders and hold ball well don help Japan balance attack and defense. For match against Tunisia, Ueda register five total shots, seven touches for opposition penalty area, and win 75% of im aerial duels.
Ueda don also score winner for friendly match against Brazil before this tournament. That 3-2 comeback victory be Japan first win over Brazil ever. After that match, Ueda talk say winning World Cup na im goal and the team target.
Japan don suffer heartbreak for previous World Cups. For 2002, Turkey beat dem. For 2010, Paraguay defeat dem for penalties. For 2018, dem throw away 2-0 lead against Belgium. For 2022, another penalty shootout defeat for Qatar. But with Ueda for the team, things fit different.
Ueda don build strong chemistry with creative players like Daichi Kamada and Ritsu Doan. Dem pace and movement dey create chances wey match Ueda’s runs inside penalty box. This understanding don show for whole World Cup campaign.
For group stage, Japan draw 2-2 with Netherlands first match, then beat Tunisia 4-0. Dem go face Sweden for final group match. One point fit secure second place behind Netherlands, but win fit make dem top group depending on goal difference.
Ueda don score 8 goals and give 2 assists for 9 international matches for 2026. Im don become coach Moriyasu first-choice forward since im debut for senior team for 2019. Im don score for World Cup qualifiers, AFC Asian Cup, and friendly matches.
Brazil go control possession with dem many attacking stars. But Japan forwards must be very lethal with limited chances. Ueda dey dangerous for counter-attack and fit win ball and strike crosses. Im physical strength help am hold ball and link with midfielders, wey help Japan relieve pressure.
Japan chances to upset Brazil go depend on defensive balance and excellent finishing. Knockout football often decide by one crucial moment. If Japan go achieve another historic result, Ayase Ueda be the player wey fit provide that magical moment.
