Japan's Wataru Endo Withdraws From World Cup 3 Days Before Netherlands Clash
Summary
Japan’s soccer captain, Wataru Endo, has withdrawn from the 2026 World Cup just three days before their first game against the Netherlands. Endo, who suffered a serious foot injury earlier this year, is also ending his international career. He will be replaced by striker Shuto Machino for the tournament.Key Facts
- The 2026 FIFA World Cup started with Mexico beating South Africa 2-0.
- Japan is in Group F and seen as a surprise contender in the tournament.
- Wataru Endo is 33 years old and has been Japan's captain since 2023.
- He plays for Liverpool and joined the club in 2023 after four years in Germany.
- Endo injured his foot in February and needed surgery, missing months of play.
- He played part of a warm-up game against Iceland but later withdrew from the World Cup.
- Japan’s replacement for Endo is Shuto Machino, a striker with 5 goals in 14 games for Japan.
- Losing their captain so close to the game makes Japan’s path in the tournament harder.
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