AFC Asian Qualifiers
Ao Tanaka’s second minute goal meant Japan made it three wins out of three to move five points clear at the top, with Myanmar and Syria playing to a 1-1 draw in the other tie.
Japan are well on course for a place in the third round of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers which will also seal AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 qualification and that was all that Moriyasu was concerned about.
"We were able to win today because our players did their best to live up to the expectations of supporters here and behind the TV screen," said Moriyasu, with Japan determined to bounce back after suffering quarter-final elimination in the recent AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023.
Tanaka, recalled to the squad after having missed Qatar 2023, echoed his coach’s words.
"I feel we might have made things difficult for ourselves. Winning was the most important thing and it's positive in a sense that we can reflect after getting a win,” said the Fortuna Dusseldorf midfielder.
The defeat meant DPR Korea stayed on three points and need a win in the reverse fixture on Tuesday to reignite their qualification hopes.
"We wanted to bring good results for our compatriots but we couldn't, and for that, we're very sorry," said DPR Korea head coach Sin Yong Nam, with his side having been supported by a strong contingent of supporters in the Japan National Stadium.
"I know our compatriots cheered for us as if they were running together with us, and their heartful screams really lifted our spirits. It was a disappointing result, but we want them to remain hopeful for our next match."
Syria, meanwhile, will be hoping for a better outcome in the reverse fixture on Tuesday after needing a late goal to salvage a point against Myanmar in Yangon.
The stalemate meant Syria moved up to four points while it was Myanmar’s first after having opened their campaign with two defeats.
