Takahashi: Iran is Japan’s biggest rival in Asia

Tehran - Japan is preparing for the Asian championship as it seeks to secure direct qualification for the 2028 Games.

Speaking during a national team training session in Tokyo, Takahashi, one of Japan’s key players, expressed confidence in his condition ahead of the tournament.

“I was able to recover after the Volleyball Nations League,” Takahashi said. “From here, I can shift gears, and I feel that I am well prepared for the Asian Championship.”

Concern over Ishikawa’s condition

Japan captain Yuki Ishikawa, who suffered a neck injury during the Volleyball Nations League tour, took part in only 15 minutes of the main portion of Japan’s latest training session before leaving the court.

Takahashi is expected to play a key role for Japan as the team prepares for the continental competition.

Takahashi warns of Iran, unfamiliar opponents

Referring to Japan’s main rivals in Asia, Takahashi said Iran represents the biggest challenge.

“Iran is undoubtedly our biggest rival, but we also have to be careful about unfamiliar teams such as Australia, Bahrain and Oman,” he said.

“We don’t know what they will do, and we have to be prepared so that we don’t lose our rhythm.”

Japan targets Olympic berth on home soil

Under changes to the Olympic qualification system, winning the continental championship has become a pathway to qualification for the Games, giving Japan an opportunity to secure its Los Angeles berth two years in advance.

“I feel that we are ready to compete now,” Takahashi said.

He said his goal is to qualify for the Olympics and help Japan win an Olympic medal for the first time since the 1972 Munich Games, when the Japanese men’s team won gold.

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