Arlington, June 4 -- Japanese midfielder Takefusa Kubo believes Japan have grown into a more confident side since the disappointing conclusion of their previous FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 campaign, as they prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Kubo, at just 21 years old, was the youngest player in Japan's squad at the 2022 WC. He played a role in a historic campaign that saw Japan stun European powerhouses Germany and Spain, before their remarkable run ended in a heartbreaking penalty-shootout defeat to Croatia.

Four years later, Takefusa Kubo now carries greater responsibility as Japan prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Since the World Cup in Qatar, Japan have continued to impress, delivering strong performances in the Asian qualifie...