Fans praise Japan's team spirit as Samurai Blue thrash Tunisia 4-0 and make World Cup history

MONTERREY, Mexico: Japan fans hailed their side's togetherness after an emphatic 4-0 victory over Tunisia which leaves them on the brink of making the World Cup round of 32.

At the Estadio Monterrey on Saturday (Jun 20), Hajime Moriyasu's men dominated with goals from Junya Ito, Daichi Kamada, and a brace from Ayase Ueda.

In what was a milestone occasion - the 1,000th match in World Cup history - Japan also became the first Asian team to score four goals at a World Cup match.

Speaking to CNA, Samurai Blue supporters said they were full of pride at the way Japan played, and even more so given the circumstances surrounding the team.

Prior to the team’s departure to North America, it was announced that the mercurial Brighton midfielder Kaoru Mitoma would miss the World Cup due to injury, with Monaco attacker Takumi Minamino also ruled out.

It was then announced just days before the Netherlands game that captain Wataru Endo would miss the tournament due to injury, with the 33-year-old retiring from international duty.

To make matters worse, the team's star attacker Takefusa Kubo picked up an injury against the Netherlands and missed Saturday's game.

"We are a team and not individuals," said Mr Ryu Hotta, who described it as one of the best performances by the team since he started supporting them decades ago.

"The team is strong," added his wife, Ms Ishin Hotta.

"Having one star is important, but now Japan's teamwork is so nice because of Moriyasu," said Mr Yohei Nakai.

The win means that the Samurai Blue have one foot in round of 32 with four points in two games.

"Every team at the World Cup is a difficult match," said Mr Ken Okawa. "(But) we just controlled the game, we don't do that very often."

The loss eliminates Tunisia from the