Japan forward Keisuke Honda remains optimistic ahead of FIFA World Cup despite Ghana friendly defeat

Veteran Japanese forward Keisuke Honda says the Sumarai Blues are confident ahead of the FIFA World Cup in Russia despite the international friendly defeat to the Black Stars of Ghana. '

Ghana beat Japan 2-0 in Yokohama to win the Kirin Challenge Cup on Wednesday after Athletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey scored a beautiful free-kick before Levante UD forward Emmanuel Boateng scored the second goal on his International debut.

The Black Stars of Ghana travelled to Japan with a weakened team due to the absence of Captain Asamoah Gyan, the Ayew brothers, Christian Atsu and Afriyie Acquah.

However, they shocked the World Cup bound Japanese team raising concerns about Japan's readiness for the World Cup. Experienced forward Keisuke Honda says the players are optimistic of their chances going to Russia for the mundial.

"This situation is not what it began for now.The team is starting from scratch, everyone is looking forward, everyone is not pessimistic just that there is a feeling of crisis, " the 31 year old said.

Meanwhile, head Coach of Japan Akira Nishino says his side should have won the game after creating all the chances in the match.

"I thought it was a game we should have won  regardless of what I thought," he said.

Japan are in Group H of the FIFA World Cup together with Columbia, Poland and Senegal.

Ghana, however, will play Iceland on June 7th in another International friendly.

By Lukman Evergreen Mumin 

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