Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu has come to the defence of midfielder Tanaka Ao after the player apologised for the challenge that left Ghana’s Francis Abu with a serious injury during Friday’s Kirin Challenge Cup match in Nagoya.
Tanaka publicly apologised after the match, saying, “I’m sorry about today,” following the tackle that saw Abu stretchered off before being transferred to the Toyota Memorial Hospital for further evaluation.
Moriyasu applauded the midfielder’s gesture, describing it as a testament to his character. “It’s typical of Aoi. His behaviour, showing consideration for others, is admirable and reflects who he is as a person,” he said.
However, the Japan coach questioned whether Tanaka needed to apologise at all, stressing that there was no intent to injure. “Did he play maliciously? In the end, it was a foul, but it wasn’t something he did intentionally. I don’t think Aoi is at fault,” Moriyasu added.
The incident overshadowed Japan’s 2-0 victory, with Ghana confirming that Abu is stable as plans for his treatment and recovery continue.
