'We have to keep going': Japan buoyed by Germany victory, but not getting carried away

DOHA: Their historic 2-1 triumph over Germany may have sent shockwaves reverberating across the footballing world, but Japan are refusing to get carried away.

Speaking to CNA after a training session on Friday (Nov 25), various Samurai Blue players reiterated that the job is far from done.

Japan will face Costa Rica on Sunday (Nov 27), and a win, coupled with anything other than a Germany victory against Spain, could see Hajime Moriyasu's men progress to the last 16 for the fourth time in their history.

"The mood is really positive, but we're not completely relieved. Because we still have nothing - we still haven't qualified," said goalkeeper Daniel Schmidt.

At the training session, players were put through their paces, and spirits looked high among Moriyasu's men despite the blazing midday sun.

"Of course we feel good. I also feel good because we won against Germany," added defender Ko Itakura.

"I knew that Germany is high quality (with) good players. But we did it, and I believe in myself."

Itakura made his World Cup debut in the win against Germany on Wednesday (Nov 23), and his raking long ball found substitute Takuma Asano who scored the winner.

Players also emphasised that they are now looking ahead to the Costa Rica game rather than dwelling on the glory of the Germany triumph.

"We are happy but ... already focused on the next game against Costa Rica. Costa Rica will also be a difficult game," explained Itakura, who joined Bundesliga side Borussia Monchengladbach in the summer transfer window.

Costa Rica were hammered 7-0 by Spain in their opener and currently sit bottom of Group E. Japan on the other hand, are second, with the top two teams progressing to the next round.

Japan have never lost to Costa Rica, and sit 24th in