Japan soccer is also on alert ahead of the World Cup. This time it is Kaoru Mitoma (BRIGHTEN).
Japan Sports Navi on the 13th focused on Mitoma's hamstring injury. According to reports, Mitoma grabbed the back of his left thigh and collapsed during the May 9 match against Wolverhampton. With Brighton manager Fabian Hürzeler's "it doesn't look good," concerns arose that a short-term return would not be easy.
The timing is the worst. About a month remains until the opening of the 2026 CONCACAF World Cup. The announcement of Japan's national team roster is also imminent. Sports Navi said the roster announcement is scheduled for May 15 Japan time, and attention is focused on whether Mitoma's name might be included.
Mitoma showed his presence from the early stages of the Wolverhampton match. Just about 30 seconds after the start of the match, he was involved in attacking play down the left flank and played a key role in Brighton's opening goal. He endured strong physical challenges from opponents and connected passes, and the goal was completed later with a cross and a header. Sports Navi said the scene was a goal created by Mitoma's play.
BRIGHTEN also took control of the mood by taking a 2-0 lead within 5 minutes of the first half. Opponent Wolverhampton was already a team confirmed for relegation. Judging by the flow of the match, it felt like a comfortable win for BRIGHTEN. But after the 10th minute of the second half, when Mitoma suddenly collapsed, the situation completely changed. Sports Navi reported that at the scene it was initially difficult to understand what had happened.
A hamstring injury is one of the most troublesome injuries for soccer players. Even after the pain subsides, there is a high risk of recurrence in sprints, changes of direction and sudden acceleration. It is an especially sensitive area for players like Mitoma, whose strengths are dribbling and explosive first steps. Immediately before the World Cup, full recovery of condition is more important than the speed of recovery.
The blow is significant even for the Japan national team. Mitoma is one of the few cards who can unsettle opposing defenses on the left flank. When the flow of the match is blocked, he can create openings with individual breakthroughs, and he has a big presence in forward pressing and transitional attacks. A player like that collapsing from injury just before the roster announcement inevitably affects the entire planning of the national team.
Japan had high expectations recently ahead of the World Cup. But injury variables among key overseas-based players are a more direct danger than any tactical analysis. Even if Mitoma is named, the problem is his physical condition. Availability to play and actual performance are different.
The World Cup won't wait. There is not much time left for Mitoma.
[OSEN]