Emotional Troussier hopeful for Japanese future

Japan coach Philippe Troussier was close to tears after his team’s World Cup adventure ended with a 1-0 defeat to Turkey in what turned out to be his final game in charge.

The co-hosts’ dreams of making the quarter-finals were brought crashing down by Umit Davala’s 12th-minute header in rainswept Miyagi.

Troussier, whose four-year reign concluded with a disappointing display from his team, is nonetheless hopeful for the future of Japanese football.

The Frenchman said: ‘‘I would tell all Japanese players to keep believing in their ability and their potential for success.

‘‘I think there is even some recognition among European football of the progress we have made.

‘‘I hope the Japanese Football Federation will keep the same pace of development and keep on moving ahead.

‘‘But the players have certainly proved that they can play with the best.’’