GUADALUPE, Mexico - With their record 4-0 demolition of Tunisia on Saturday, Japan avoided repeating their 2022 World Cup pitfall, but more significantly demonstrated a growth of character that underscored their emergence as serious contenders.
Their famous 2-1 comeback wins over powerhouses Germany and Spain four years ago in Qatar sandwiched a sluggish 1-0 defeat to Costa Rica, and concerns had persisted about their ability to break down World Cup-level opponents who are happy to cede possession.
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