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Japan's Wataru Endo works to recover ahead of World Cup opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 9, 2026, 2:46 AM

Last updated Jun 9, 2026

Japan's Wataru Endo works to recover ahead of World Cup opener

Summary

Japan captain Wataru Endo is attempting to recover from a foot injury ahead of their World Cup opener against the Netherlands on Sunday. Coach Hajime Moriyasu hopes Endo can contribute despite his limited training, as he participated in running and passing drills after arriving at the team's base in Nashville. Endo previously suffered a serious injury while with Liverpool but returned for a friendly against Iceland on May 31. The coach is considering replacement options should Endo be unable to play during the tournament.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Wataru Endo is struggling with a foot injury.
•Japan faces the Netherlands in their World Cup opener on Sunday.
•Endo participated in light drills but missed full training.
•Coach Hajime Moriyasu has replacement plans if needed.
•Other players like Kaoru Mitoma miss out due to injuries.

Latest Updates

2:46 AMYahoo Sports — Japan 'pray' on Endo fitness for World Cup opener

What they're saying

"
Japan captain Wataru Endo is in a race to be fit for their World Cup opener against the Netherlands on Sunday, leaving coach Hajime Moriyasu "praying" he makes it.Endo took part in running and passing drills with his team-mates on Monday after moving to their World Cup base in Nashville, and Moriyasu said he was still in contention to face the Dutch in Dallas.
— Yahoo Sports

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