Alberto Zaccheroni's Japan has conquered Asia. South America is next on its list.
Japan won five of six matches alongside a draw at the Asian Cup, including Saturday's 1-0 extra-time victory over Australia in the final at Khalifa Stadium.
Prior to the tournament, Zaccheroni said he wasn't out to win the continental championship, but to season a young team for the World Cup qualifying campaign starting in September.
Zaccheroni managed to do both in the end, producing a string of dramatic victories as Japan captured a record fourth Asian Cup, the Italian's first international title.