The captain of Japan reveals he has identified Indonesia's weaknesses

The captain of the Japanese futsal team confirms he has grasped Indonesia's weaknesses and is prepared to face the host team in the AFC Futsal 2026 semifinals.

Ahead of the AFC Futsal 2026 semifinal match, the captain of Japan's futsal team, Shimizu Kazuya, stated that he and the coaching staff have identified the host Indonesia’s weaknesses, thus preparing thoroughly for the crucial encounter at Indonesia Arena.

According to the schedule, the Indonesian futsal team will face Japan in the AFC Futsal 2026 semifinals on the evening of February 5. This is considered the biggest challenge for coach Hector Souto’s squad on their quest to conquer the tournament, as their opponent is one of the most traditionally strong and experienced teams in Asia.

In an interview with the press, Shimizu Kazuya revealed he has multiple sources to study Indonesian futsal. Notably, Kazuya’s older brother, Seiya Shimizu, currently plays for Cosmo JNE Jakarta in Indonesia’s national futsal league, which helps the Japanese captain gain deeper insight into the host’s playing environment and style.

“My brother plays in Jakarta and frequently shares a lot of information about Indonesian futsal. Additionally, I follow matches and analyze details on social media to identify their weaknesses,” Kazuya explained.

Moreover, Japan’s significant advantage comes from coach Kensuke Takahashi, who led the Indonesian futsal team from 2018 to 2021. According to Kazuya, the coach has prepared detailed tactical analyses to help the Blue Samurai be optimally ready for the semifinal match.

Despite playing away with pressure from Indonesian supporters, Shimizu Kazuya remains confident. He affirmed that he is accustomed to intense atmospheres, having played in Spain, one of the world’s futsal hubs: “I’m used to playing in stadiums filled with fans. That makes the game more exciting. I also hope there will be Japanese supporters in the stands, as there is a sizable Japanese community in Jakarta,” the captain of Japan’s futsal team shared.

On the coaching side, Kensuke Takahashi also expressed respect for the host team. Although previously connected to Indonesian futsal, the Japanese strategist said he will put aside memories to focus on securing victory for Japan.

“I am impressed by the development of Indonesian futsal and how they organize their gameplay. Indonesia reaching the semifinals is not surprising,” Takahashi remarked, emphasizing that Japan will give their utmost effort to reach the final.