The World Cup qualifier against Group B leader Saudi Arabia next week could make or break Japan's campaign, defender Tomoaki Makino said Monday.
"It's important to play good football, but we as the national team have a responsibility to win," Makino said following training at the Kashima Antlers clubhouse. "Depending on whether we win or lose here, the away games could become very difficult. We've got to go all in and fight to the death.
"We'll be at home, where there will be lots of fans, and it's the last game of the year. The result will change next year's outlook for us."