
LAFC Eyes Historic Streak as 2026 Campaign Nears Its Climax
LAFC’s recent World Cup successes, a jam‑packed post‑break schedule, and ambitious trophy goals set the stage for a defining stretch in 2026.
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Maya Yoshida across Football, Soccer.

LAFC’s recent World Cup successes, a jam‑packed post‑break schedule, and ambitious trophy goals set the stage for a defining stretch in 2026.

The Japanese national team arrived in Nashville for World Cup preparation, holding an open session at Geodis Park and planning a prolonged stay at Nashville SC's facility while targeting a historic advance past the round of 16.

Former captain Maya Yoshida will support Japan's squad during a pre‑tournament camp in Monterrey, bringing his North American experience to a team preparing for the World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States.

Japan secured a 1-0 victory over Iceland in a friendly ahead of their opening World Cup match against the Netherlands on June 14, with manager Hajime Moriyasu overseeing a high‑tempo send‑off.

Japan’s national team opened its 2024 World Cup preparations in Chiba, featuring Ayase Ueda, Ritsu Doan, Kaishu Sano, Maya Yoshida and other European-based stars ahead of a North American tour.

Japan will field Maya Yoshida in a Tokyo send‑off against Iceland on May 31, a final tune‑up before the global tournament, as midfielder Daichi Kamada eyes a European club final.