The FIFA World Cup preparations in Mexico have been an uneasy beginning for Japan due to training problems. With poor conditions on the pitch, the team had to move two times in two days for training. Japan set to train in a venue connected to Tigres UANL from Monterrey. But the pitch had been in poor condition due to bad weather in recent times. This caused the coaches to make a hasty change.
The team was then taken to a field set aside for the under-19 team. However, this too did not meet the necessary standards. Therefore, the group relocated to another training camp which was also the one utilized by Monterrey’s club team.
This kind of disruption is not conducive at this stage. There is not much time available to get ready for a big tournament. Typically, teams work on tactical exercises, fitness balance and match rhythm. Frequent venue changes can throw off that balance.
Regardless, the behavior within the camp seems to be in check. There are reports that players are not losing their tempers. This means that the team has good organization and discipline.
Japan is strongest when it comes to structure, from a performance point of view. They coordinate and are precise. If that persists it may cause training instability.
But the initial failures can also focus the mind. When there are logistical problems, teams are quick to adjust. However, if Japan can stabilise their training environment soon, this effect may have minimal impacts.
Their first game against the Netherlands is quickly approaching. That game will help them see how well they have handled this disruption phase.
