YOKOHAMA -- Brace yourselves, Australia is not an easy team to play. This was the warning message given by Japan manager Philippe Troussier to the fans, the press and his team not to underestimate Australia, which Japan will play in a semifinal on Thursday at Yokohama International Stadium.
"Australia has players who play for the best teams in Britain. They beat France and Mexico. We have to consider the dynamism of Australia," Troussier said at a press conference on Wednesday at a Yokohama hotel.
"Psychologically, playing against Australia is easier than playing against France or Brazil if you consider the experience and history of each team. At the same time, Australia will also feel that it is easier to play us than France," he said.