Japan coach Javier Aguirre faces a race against time to find a squad capable of putting up a strong Asian Cup title defense, the Mexican admitting he needs at least two more matches to weigh up his options ahead of next year’s tournament.
Japan is a team in transition and has struggled since Aguirre replaced Alberto Zaccheroni in July after a poor World Cup, winning just one of four matches with a 4-0 hammering by Brazil in Singapore on Tuesday doing little to boost morale.
Aguirre, who coached Mexico at two World Cups, fielded a youthful side against Brazil and although it was unable to prevent an inspired Neymar from grabbing all four goals, he was generally satisfied with his team's work rate and determination.