Open your eyes, face reality and work on what you are missing from your game -- that was Philippe Troussier's message to Japan following his team's 5-0 defeat at the hands of France on March 24.
Japan manager Troussier on Thursday had a strong and positive message for his players, choosing to focus on what was to be gained from the thrashing in France rather than any negative interpretations of the match.
"I'd like to thank France as they helped us find the direction we should be moving in," Troussier proclaimed.