Road to Rio

Some 48 years after making Asian history by winning their first men’s Olympic football medal, Japan travel to Brazil still looking for their second.

They came close in London 2012, losing the bronze medal match to neighbours Korea Republic, but gained a measure of revenge by overturning a two-goal deficit to beat the Taegeuk Warriors 3-2 in the final the 2016 AFC U23 Championships in Qatar, which doubled as the men’s Olympic qualifying tournament.

Japan scored freely and remained undefeated in qualifying, and even when requiring extra-time to beat Iran in the quarter-finals they piled on three goals in 15 minutes to secure the win.

With the top three teams in the U23 Championship guaranteed a place in Brazil, the moment that secured Japan’s qualification was unforgettable. Locked at 1-1 in the 93rd of minute of the semi-final against Iraq, Kyoto Sanga midfielder Riki Harakawa produced a thumping half-volley from 20 yards to secure his country’s place in the final draw.

Asia’s Olympics hopefuls announce Rio 2016 squads

Facts and Figures

Current head coach: Makoto Teguramori

Previous appearances: 9 (2012, 2008, 2004, 2000, 1996, 1968, 1964, 1956, 1936)

Best finish: Bronze medal (1968)

Matches played: 32

All-time record: (W-D-L): 13 - 4 - 15

Goals scored: 41

Goals conceded: 60

Best result: 3-0 (versus Egypt in 2012)