As Japan prepares for the World Cup 2026, two notable figures, Takumi Minamino and Maya Yoshida, are making headlines. Minamino, a key player under coach Hajime Moriyasu, unfortunately suffered a serious knee injury while playing for Monaco in December 2025. Despite this setback, the 31-year-old forward has been called up to the national team in a supportive role, aiming to assist his teammates in any way possible.

Similarly, 38-year-old Maya Yoshida is also taking on a mentorship role. Both players have chosen to forgo their summer vacations with family to support the national team during this prestigious tournament. Reports from Japanese media outlet Sponichi highlight how Minamino and Yoshida, along with several former national team members, are contributing quietly but significantly to the squad's efforts.

During training sessions, Minamino and Yoshida have been instrumental, often being the first to arrive and helping the coaching staff prepare for upcoming matches. They provide encouragement, share their experiences, and offer advice to younger players. Veteran Yuto Nagatomo praised their dedication, noting that the duo even engages in logistical tasks, such as cleaning up and organizing equipment, which is a rare sight in professional sports.

Fans have expressed their admiration for the commitment shown by these seasoned players. Comments on a video shared by the Japan Football Association (JFA) reveal a deep respect for their actions, with one viewer stating, "It brought tears to my eyes." Nagatomo pointed out that the solidarity displayed by the Japanese team is commendable, especially when compared to other teams, such as the Netherlands, where players often remain seated on the bench.

As Japan gears up for their match against Tunisia in the group stage, the team is focused on building a strong sense of unity. Historically, Japan has struggled in their second group stage matches, having won only once in seven attempts. The team will be without players Takefusa Kubo and Shuto Machino for this upcoming game.

In contrast, Tunisia has recently faced challenges, including a heavy defeat to Sweden, which led to the dismissal of their coach, Sabri Lamouchi. The new coach, Herve Renard, has urged his players to focus and avoid distractions from social media, emphasizing the importance of their hard work over the past four years to reach this tournament.