Japan have mapped out a plan to win the World Cup ...

Article excerpt

Japan's soccer federation has unveiled a "100 Year Vision" to systematically develop the sport and mount a genuine World Cup challenge, with officials suggesting the program is already ahead of schedule. The initiative maps out infrastructure, youth development, and tactical improvements across decades, but the immediate question is whether the Samurai Blue can capitalize on momentum and compete for the trophy in 2026. The plan represents an unusual long-term commitment in a sport typically dominated by reactive, shorter-term strategies.