Japan’s Asian Cup Exit: Endo’s Return to Liverpool
Heading into the Asian Cup tournament in Qatar, Japan was considered the favorites to win the competition. However, their journey came to an unexpected end in a dramatic quarter-final match against Iran. Late into stoppage time, Iran scored a penalty, knocking Japan out of the tournament and sending Wataru Endo back to Liverpool.
Japan had a promising start in the tournament, finishing second behind Iraq in Group D. They then overcame Bahrain in the last 16 to set up a quarter-final clash against Iran. The Japanese team took the lead in the match through midfielder Hidemasa Morita, but unfortunately, they suffered a second-half collapse.
Iran equalized soon after the break, dominating play with 17 shots compared to Japan’s eight. They had four shots on target while Japan managed only two. The match seemed destined for extra time until Liverpool target Ko Itakura fouled Hossein Kanaani in the box. After a long VAR review, Iran was awarded a penalty.
Ex-Brighton attacking midfielder Alireza Jahanbakhsh confidently converted the penalty in the sixth minute of stoppage time, securing Iran’s victory and ending Japan’s hopes of progressing further in the tournament. Iran will now face either hosts Qatar or Uzbekistan in the semi-finals on February 7.
For Wataru Endo, it means he will return to his Liverpool team-mates at the AXA Training Centre next week. Despite the disappointment of Japan’s exit, this could be seen as a positive development for Liverpool. Endo played every minute of all five games as captain for Japan, showcasing his leadership skills and gaining valuable experience.
During Endo’s absence, Alexis Mac Allister has reclaimed his starting spot as No. 6 for Liverpool and has been in excellent form. It is likely that Endo will initially take a place on the bench upon his return, as there is fierce competition for places in the team. Additionally, Thiago, who has recently recovered from an injury, could also be in the squad against Burnley.
Liverpool fans will be hopeful that Mohamed Salah will also be fit for the upcoming match at Anfield, adding further strength to the team. The only players currently on the absentee list are Joel Matip (ACL), Stefan Bajcetic (calf), and Ben Doak (MCL).
Although the Asian Cup exit may have been disappointing for Wataru Endo, his return to Liverpool brings new opportunities for him to make an impact in the Premier League. With competition for places heating up, Liverpool fans are eagerly awaiting the team’s upcoming matches and the potential contributions of their returning players.