Hajime Moriyasu was set to lead Japan at the tournament early next year before handing over to Under-23 coach Go Oiwa, but could now leave by the end of this year. (EPA Images pic) TOKYO: Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu said Wednesday that he would "accept reality" after the 2027 Asian Cup's postponement from January to December likely cost him his last shot at silverware before stepping down.
The Asian Football Confederation said the tournament in Saudi Arabia would be pushed back almost a year due to "exceptional circumstances" in the region, following Houthi attacks on the host country.
Moriyasu was due to lead Japan at the tournament early next year before being replaced by current Under-23 coach Go Oiwa, but he could now leave at the end of this year.
