Ao Tanaka issues defiant message after Japan exit as countrymen rally round | OneFootball

Ao Tanaka has delivered a defiant message after Japan’s last-32 defeat by Brazil, accepting responsibility for the decisive error as support poured in from team-mates and compatriots.

In Houston, Texas, the knockout tie stood at 1-1 when the Leeds United midfielder won the ball from Endrick near his own area, was swiftly robbed and Brazil struck within seconds. Tanaka was consoled by team-mates and Manchester United attacker Matheus Cunha at full-time. The player said in a post that he would tackle the setback head on, admitted his ability had fallen short, vowed to rise again and thanked team-mates, staff and supporters.

Tanaka has long worn his heart on his sleeve. After a 1-1 draw at Luton Town late in Leeds’ Championship title-winning season he left the pitch in tears amid away-end frustration. He has been brutally self-critical on social media and had even considered leaving Elland Road after a spell on the sidelines last season.

The Instagram post drew rapid backing. Takumi Minamino and Ko Itakura replied, “Just do it.” Sporting CP’s Hidemasa Morita responded with a phoenix emoji, a symbol Tanaka has used when reflecting on his resurgence to feature in the final third of Leeds’ campaign.

Leeds players Jayden Bogle, Willy Gnonto and Anton Stach liked the post, as did the recently departed Pascal Struijk and Illan Meslier.

Source: yorkshireeveningpost.co.uk