‘Bundesliga and Premier League did this’

now we are playing to a global standard. We already saw Saudi Arabia pick up a surprise win against Argentina. We are now showing the capabilities of Asian football.

“If I think about the development of Japanese football – we have been building up to this. Four of our squad play in the Bundesliga [including the two scorers], two in the Premier League. They fight in these very strong, tough leagues.

“They’ve been building up their strength. These leagues have been contributing to the development of our players – I’m very grateful for that.” Skipper Maya Yoshida, left, said: “Obviously, it wasn’t the plan to concede the first goal. But we tried to stay calm, stay solid. We knew in the second half we would get more chances in behind them. There was more space. Our strength is team organisation and unity.We showed that. I’m very happy.”

Substitute Kaoru Mitoma, who plays for Brighton, added: “It’s the greatest day of my life – for me and the team.

“Of course, we wanted to win but our plan was to draw. I think that the players and the coaches have all created history here.”