8legs: Kaoru mitoma

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Japan Waits on Star Forward Mitoma's Fitness For 2026 World Cup After Injury

Mitoma's World Cup participation is under a cloud after he limped off with a suspected hamstring injury for Brighton, prompting Japan to await scans before final squad selection.
Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu is awaiting scan results to determine injury severity, with staff indicating it may not be minor ahead of a World Cup squad reveal.
The setback compounds Japan's forward-line gaps, already missing Takumi Minamino to ACL injury, impacting preparation for the World Cup.
If Mitoma is unavailable, Japan could adjust their June friendlies against Tunisia and Sweden to refine tactics and formation.
Mitoma remains a key figure after standout 2022 form and a March goal against England, underscoring his value to Japan's attack even amid doubts.
Brighton noted a hamstring-sounding issue and will await scans to clarify the severity ahead of crucial late-season fixtures.
Mitoma's status ties to Japan's Group F hopes, where advancement from the group depends on strong performances in the phase.
Moriyasu faces an anxious wait before naming the World Cup squad, highlighting tactical uncertainty around Mitoma's availability.
Japan's World Cup schedule places their Netherlands clash five weeks away, increasing urgency to confirm Mitoma's status.
The new reference from AP confirms Mitoma's injury occurred during Brighton's win, reinforcing the timeline ahead of the World Cup announcement.

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