Leeds United midfielder Ao Tanaka says the frustration and remorse from Japan’s World Cup exit to Brazil will linger after his costly mistake.
“The frustration and remorse have been there, and I think that won’t change going forward,” Tanaka said to Kyodo News. “My ability was simply lacking.”
Japan were beaten 2-1 by Brazil in the round of 32 on Monday in Houston. Tanaka came on in the 77th minute with the game at 1-1. After dispossessing Endrick, he was caught by Rayan, who found Bruno Guimaraes to set up Gabriel Martinelli in the 95th minute.
The midfielder was inconsolable at full-time, in tears as Manchester United and Brazil forward Matheus Cunha tried to comfort him.
“I really felt responsible for us conceding at that stage of the match. I can only wipe out the frustration felt at this World Cup at another World Cup, which is a special stage…I want to develop into a player who can match the world’s top players.”
Tanaka had largely impressed during the tournament, outstanding in a 4-0 win over Tunisia and strong in a 1-1 draw with Sweden against Elland Road teammate Gabriel Gudmundsson.
Both have since departed, with Sweden losing 3-0 to tournament favourites France in the last 32. Two Leeds players remain, as Brenden Aaronson’s USA beat Bosnia & Herzegovina 2-0 to reach the last 16, and Noah Okafor’s Switzerland face Algeria early tomorrow.