Two players, while Japanese and South African coaches who will play in the Tokyo Olympics men's soccer league on the 22nd, said at the meeting that coach Hajime Moriyasu said, "I want to concentrate on preparing for the match." South Africa's coach Notoane, who was infected with the new coronavirus, said, "It's a mentally difficult situation, but it's 100% out."
Japan will face South Africa in the first match of the qualifying league at Tokyo Stadium on the 22nd.
In South Africa, a total of 3 athletes and staff were infected with the new coronavirus and 18 were certified as close contacts, but the Games Organizing Committee said that even close contacts were negative in the test 6 hours before the match. It shows the idea that you can participate in the game.
Today, after both teams finished their practice in Chiba prefecture, the managers and players of both teams attended a press conference at the venue, Tokyo Stadium.
Japanese coach Hajime Moriyasu said, "I have concerns about whether or not the match is possible, but I want to concentrate on preparing for the match. There is no upset in the team, and the players are prepared to calm down without being confused by information. I think he will give it to me, "he said with enthusiasm.
Meanwhile, South African coach Notoane said at a press conference with defender Malepe, "Japan is an aggressive and talented team. It's a difficult mental situation, but I'm going to do 100%."
At least 13 players must be registered to host the match, but according to Notoane, 17 players are preparing for the match on the 22nd, with the exception of the two infected. That is.
Maya Yoshida, the captain of the Japanese national team who plays in the Italian 1st division league, said, "It's a pity that there were positive players in South Africa, but management is also important in this tournament. I want to do it without being relaxed. "
When asked by the press, "Do you think you can play safely and securely?", "Athletes who get a positive result have been playing in Italy for a year without being a member, so there is no problem personally. I think. The hotel also lives under strict rules. I don't feel any particular danger so far. "
For the tournament, he said, "I'm really looking forward to it. I'm really looking forward to it. I'm preparing in a good environment at home, having a good match with a good opponent, and the team is getting better." ..