Takefusa Kubo

Kubo (knee) was able to walk off the field after suffering an injury in Sunday's draw with the Netherlands and commented about his condition "I don't know, I really don't know. I think they got me from all sides.", DAZN reports.

Analysis: Kubo appeared to take a knock to the knee and received medical treatment before his exit from the game, in which he set up the first of Japan's goals. While the attacker is hopeful to avoid a major issue, he'll need to be assessed and could be at risk of missing the next World Cup matchup against Tunisia. His absence would significantly limit the team's dribbling talent and would be covered by either Junya Ito or Sunday's assist contributor Koki Ogawa.

Jun 14, 2026

Off with knee injury

Kubo was taken off the field in the 70th minute of Sunday's match against the Netherlands due to an apparent knee injury.

Analysis: Kubo looked to be struggling at times in the second half Sunday, which would lead to his eventual exit, leaving the field with medical attention and ice on his knee. This is a major storyline to watch for the team as they advance in the tournament, as he is a major part of the attack, their star young talent. He was replaced by Koji Ogawa after starting in the center of the attacking midfield, a possible replacement if he misses further time.

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Takefusa Kubo

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