Japanese soccer made a significant step last year with victory in the Asian Cup. For me, it was like the halfway point to the World Cup and it really represented a victory for the J. League clubs and the work they have put in.
It was also a victory for the players, for their talent, and it was a victory of a team of men. In fact, it represented a victory for all football clubs in Japan, not only those in the J. League, but also those up and down the country from the professional level to youth level. It came as a result of their passion and the work of their coaches and the talent of the players.
But I want to emphasize the importance of the "man" in the win; success comes from strong characters and personalities, and from teamwork and sharing.