Colin Millar

They became the very first team apart from the hosts to qualify for this year's tournament.

They're currently on a run of six straight victories.

beating Brazil, Ghana, Bolivia, Scotland and England in that run.

And all in all, looking like they've got the credentials.

To get an informed take, we dart up Japan-based football journalist Dan Orlowitz for his view on Samurai Blue.

Dan, how are Japan looking coming into this World Cup?

Last World Cup did seem like a real step forward for the Samurai Blue.

Is this squad even better?

Well, they're in a tough group again this time around with Tunisia, Netherlands and Sweden, who look like they've woken up a bit.

The backdrop of this from the point of view of Japanese football's progress is the extraordinary building programme, both at league level, but also with the national team, where the stated plan is to win the World Cup by 2050.

Is that right?

That would be remarkable.

The list of teams that they have beaten over the last four or so years means you have to, I think, see what Moriasso means when he says they can challenge for the title.

One name that's going to be absent is Karo Mitoma from Brighton.

The other players in the squad that Moriasso has chosen, who should we look out for?

Oh, yeah.

well maybe all the sports are going to be perhaps so it's going to be interesting isn't it what a fantastic opportunity to see nations cultures colliding on a sporting field in a celebration of human endeavor etc and so on and cheap as well and cheap yeah i can't wait to see everyone be really happy with the prices of lager there i've heard that's really affordable as well

Well, lots of us are going to be enjoying it from the comfort of some domicile.

And it's going to be an incredible spectacle.

No question.