Japan Has Plenty of Practice for Role of a World Cup Host

Japan failed by seconds to qualify for this summer’s World Cup tournament when it was tied by Iraq, which scored the tying goal in the final minute of the final qualifying match.

Difficult as that blow was to bear, it has not deterred Japanese soccer leaders from continuing their quest to make Japan a soccer power. Key to that aim is the continuing exposure of Japanese fans and players to top-level competition.

In addition to the J-League, whose season runs from April to November, Japan also stages the annual Kirin Cup tournament. This year’s event, starting next week, features the national teams of Japan, Argentina and France, the 1998 World Cup host.

Then there is the Toyota-Intercontinental Cup, which is played each December between the club champions of Europe and South America for what amounts to the world club championship. The Toyota Cup has been played in Tokyo every year since 1980.

Finally, there is the Emperor’s Cup, featuring all Japanese teams.

Japan also staged the Under-17 World Championship in 1993 as part of its preparation for possibly playing host to the World Cup in 2002. Japan’s main rival for that event is South Korea. The decision will be made in 1996.