A soccer player who was involved in gang sexual assault has returned to the Japan national team.
The Japan national team will play an away match against Australia in Perth on June 5, followed by a final match against Indonesia in the third round of the North and Central America World Cup qualifiers in Suita, Japan, on the 10th. Japan has already confirmed its spot in the World Cup finals, making it the fastest nation to do so.
Japan (6 wins, 2 draws, 20 points), the leader of Group C, has secured a direct ticket to the World Cup finals that is granted to the top two in the group. Japan aims to utilize rookies in the remaining matches for a blend of experience and youth.
The Japan Football Association announced on the 23rd the 27-player roster for the World Cup third round qualifiers against Australia and Indonesia. However, a controversial player was included. Kaishu Sano (25, Mainz), who lost his representative status due to sexual assault, has returned to the national team after 1 year and 2 months.
Sano sexually assaulted a woman in her 30s with two acquaintances at a hotel in Tokyo in July of last year. Following a report, Sano was arrested. However, Sano reached an agreement with the victim, and the prosecution decided not to indict, concluding the case.
Sano voluntarily held a press conference on the 28th. He said, “I thought I had to ask for forgiveness directly. I am grateful for the thought of being able to play soccer again and spending each day. I conveyed to Coach Moriyasu that I am truly reflecting. There may be controversy about my selection for the national team, but I will do my best to fight for Japan,” expressing his remorse.
Japan national team coach Hajime Moriyasu noted, “Anyone can make mistakes. Sano is genuinely reflecting. We are family,” defending the offender and leading to further controversy.
There is intense public opposition within Japan, questioning whether it is appropriate for a sex offender to return to the national team.
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