Tokyo, July 1 -- Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Wednesday praised the country's national football team for its spirited FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign, saying the players inspired millions with their courage and determination despite their Round of 32 defeat to Brazil.

In a post on X, Takaichi said she had watched Japan's match against Brazil after missing the live broadcast and commended the team for its performance against one of the tournament favourites.

"In the currently ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, the Japan national football team advanced to the knockout stage and put on a magnificent performance against Brazil, one of the title contenders. I wasn't able to watch the live broadcast, but last night, I finally had the chan...