Japan head coach Teruki Tabata said effective communication will play a key role in his side’s quest to reclaim the title that they won in 2009, 2011 and 2019. 

“Our vision for the team is to ensure that all players operate in a highly coordinated manner, adapting flexibly to changing situations. Strengthening player connections has been our top priority in team development, with a strong focus on enhancing the quality of communication,” said Tabata. 

“Since prioritising communication, the team’s cohesion has significantly improved, and for the last nine months, we have consistently worked with the clear objective of winning the tournament, and while that may not be an easy task, I have complete faith in the potential of each player and all that remains is to deliver results.” 

While the larger goal of claiming the crown and a ticket to a 13th consecutive FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup remains on the horizon, the 45-year-old urged his players to focus on one match at a time. 

“The first match in any tournament is always challenging and crucial in shaping the momentum,” remarked Tabata. 

“Our goal is to showcase our aggressive and dynamic style of beach soccer, which is deeply rooted in Japan’s game model. We will try to stay on the front foot at all times and relentlessly pursue goals,” he added. 

Marcelo Mendes’s China PR side will put their preparations to the test as they eye back-to-back appearances in the quarter-finals of the continental contest and the 55-year-old is confident of seeing positive results following extensive training leading up to the competition. 

“Saudi Arabia have a good team and we have to be focused in order to match their level and emerge victorious,” said Mendes. 

“The preparation has been very good, productive, and intense in China PR and now, it is time to deliver on the big stage,” said Mendes. “Our goal is to perform well and advance to the last eight. After that, anything can happen.”

Standing in their way is a formidable Saudi Arabian side, led by fellow Brazilian Guga Zioccowick. The West Asians will also be relying on their rigorous preparations to not only make their maiden appearance in the quarter-finals but to qualify for the global showpiece in May.

Following training camps at home, as well as in Oman and the United Arab Emirates, Zioccowick is confident that his side will deliver a technically sound performance. 

“The team prepared well through these camps, and we also conducted the first official Beach Soccer league in the Kingdom. Moreover, we have played friendly games against traditional Asian powerhouses and have significantly improved our technique,” said Zioccowick. 

“While China PR are favourites, having competed in this tournament since 2006, we must remain composed. We have studied our opponents well, and we will try to eliminate their strong points while imposing our own game plan. Our goal is to win the game and take our first step towards a place in the knockout stage.”

Venue: Jomtien Beach Arena (Pattaya)

Kick-off: Thursday, 15:30 (UTC+7)

Venue: Jomtien Beach Arena (Pattaya)

Kick-off: Thursday, 18:30 (UTC+7)