November 17, 2004

Japan coach Zico is set to start his second-string national squad as reward for their perseverance as well as the fact he is confident they can beat Singapore to finish the World Cup Asian qualifying first round with a 100 per cent record.

Japan have an unbeatable 15 points from 5 straight wins.

The Brazilian legend said they have already earned the ticket for the final qualifying round, but are determined to take a sixth straight win. There are some players who had only a few chances to play during the World Cup qualifiers, the Asian Cup & the Kirin Cup but they have strived really hard for the team for without their efforts Japan would not have won those games. Therefore they are going to be given the chance this time.

Zico, who initially tried a 4-4-2 formation, has adopted the 3-5-2 line-up since Fiorentina midfielder Nakata left the national side in April because of a groin injury. Today he is expected to revert to the 4-4-2 line-up in preparation for the final round, when playmaker Nakata will be back with Reggina's Nakamura, the most valuable player of the Asian Cup in August.