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Hajime Moriyasu

Contract Until: Jul 31, 2026

Who is Hajime Moriyasu? Japan's World Cup 2026 Tactics, Formation and Style of Play

Synopsis

Japan national football team has found continuity and consistency in Hajime Moriyasu style of play and tactics during his time in the J-League and also coaching the team. He mostly emphasises the use of the 3-4-2-1 formation, adapting high-intensity, possession-based, and fluid football, while also keeping a high back line, ensuring a smooth transition from defence to attack.

The time is now for the Japan national football team and Hajime Moriyasu to shine and etch their names in history when they take on the Brazil national football team in their Round of 32 encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Monday. Coach Moriyasu and his men have successfully navigated their way through Group F after finishing second behind the Netherlands with 5 points in their first three games.

The Asian giants have now officially secured a date with destiny against Selecao, and it will be Moriyasu, who will have to conjure up a plan to defeat Carlo Ancelotti and his men. Having conceded only three goals in their games at the 2026 edition, Hajime Moriyasu tactics have been drilled well into his players as they look to implement a disciplined system.

Since his appointment as head coach in 2018, Moriyasu has built on the relationship with the players from the time he served as the Olympic squad coach and assistant to his predecessor, Akira Nishino. Under him, Japan finished as runners-up in the 2019 AFC Asian Cup and also managed an appearance in the quarter-finals of the 2023 AFC Asian Cup. Moriyasu also helped the Samurai Blues secure famous group-stage victories against global powerhouses like Germany and Spain during the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

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Hajime Moriyasu’s Style of Play and Tactics

Japan national football team has found continuity and consistency in Hajime Moriyasu style of play and tactics during his time in the J-League and also coaching the team. He mostly emphasises the usage of the 3-4-2-1 formation, adapting high-intensity, possession-based and fluid football, at the same time, keeping a high back-line ensuring a smooth transition from defence to attack. Despite a fiercely defensive approach, his side has managed to maintain a strong and productive attacking structure in Hajime Moriyasu formation and also conceded the fewest goals than the other teams in Group F.

Trophies and Achievements as Manager

Being one of Asia’s most successful football coaches, Moriyasu had an impressive time in the J-League club Sanfrecce Hiroshima before becoming the head coach of the Japan national football team. A manager known for his tactical discipline, leadership, and ability to maximize team performance, Moriyasu has enjoyed silverware success for club and country.

CompetitionTitleYear
J-League32012, 2013, 2015
Japanese Super Cup32013, 2014, 2016
EAFF E-1 Football Championship12022
Trophies won by Hajime Moriyasu

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Hajime Moriyasu Formation

With Hajime Moriyasu’s 3-4-2-1 formation and efficient attacking style, here’s how Japan could line up in the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Brazil national football team. Zion Suzuki is expected to start as their custodian in goal. He will be supported by a three-man defence expected to consist of Ayumu Seko, Ko Itakura, and Hiroki Ito as the first-choice centre-back partnership.

Image Credits: Buildlineup.com

Moriyasu will be assigning wingback duties to Yukinari Sugawara and Keito Nakamura, while the midfield will be relying on Ao Tanaka and Daichi Kamada to help in progression up-field against tough opponents. The attackers just behind the lead striker will be Daizen Maeda and Ritsu Doan, who will look to cause chaos among Brazil defenders with their dynamic movements and finishing ability from distance. The sole striker, Ayase Ueda, will lead the line and hold the key in Hajime Moriyasu Japan tactics reaching perfection.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What formation does Hajime Moriyasu use?

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Hajime Moriyasu mostly uses 3-4-2-1 tactical formation for Japan national football team.

When did Moriyasu start coaching?

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Hajime Moriyasu started his coaching career in 2004 as a coach for his former club, Sanfrecce Hiroshima.

How many trophies has Hajime Moriyasu won?

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He has won 7 trophies as a head coach, specifically leading Sanfrecce Hiroshima to three J. League titles and three Japanese Super Cups, alongside a EAFF E-1 Football Championship title with the Japan national football team.