10 Feb 2005(Thu)

TOKYO (February 9): Several years ago, in September 1997 to be precise, I remember attending a Japan training session at Tokyo National Stadium.

They were preparing for a World Cup qualifier at home to their great rivals, South Korea.

The match was so important that Gerry Harrison, executive producer of the brilliant television show "Futbal Mondial" (World Football), had come over from London to feature the game.

The Japanese players were laughing and joking and fooling around like schoolboys before the practice session began, a fact I pointed out to Gerry.

He was not impressed.

"Do you think it's sincere?" he said to me.

"No!" I replied, instantly and somewhat cynically.

"Neither do I," added Gerry. "They are trying to look relaxed but I think they're terrified!"

I have never forgotten that conversation, and Gerry's smart observation.

I have never forgotten the game, either, because Japan lost 2-1, despite taking the lead with a wonderful goal from Motohiro Yamaguchi.

Do you remember it, when he scooped the ball over the keeper and it dropped under the crossbar into the net?

Kokuritsu went wild, but fell silent shortly after when Korea equalised and then scored a late winner. It was the beginning of the end for head coach Shu Kamo.

I apologise for this piece of history, but I am in World Cup mood ahead of Wednesday's match against North Korea.

I attended the training session at Saitama Stadium on Tuesday night, and again there was some laughing and joking among the Japanese players.

I looked around for Gerry Harrison from London, but he wasn't there.

The difference this time, I am sure Gerry would have noticed, was that the Japanese players were relaxed and confident and focused.

It was not a show to mask the self-doubt and concern about the big match ahead. It was a true reflection of the spirit running through the squad.

Zico was extremely business-like in his official news conference, during which he confirmed that Shunsuke and Takahara would be on the bench.

This is a smart move by Zico. He is showing faith in the local players who have not let him down, but is not allowing the two European players to feel they are out of the picture.

Both Shunsuke and Takahara could still play a big part in the match, off the bench, just like Kubo did this time last year against Oman!

Japan's players are focused all right, with no self-doubt or fear, but they may have to be patient to break down a determined, fit and tough-tackling North Korean team.

I think they can do it, and win 2-0, maybe even with a late Shunsuke free kick to seal the victory!

ends