Tied on four points with UAE and Australia, Fujii and his teammates advanced with the best head-to-head record among the three teams with the central defender seeing first hand how unpredictable matches can be against peers across the continent.

“So far in this tournament, we have experienced the full breadth of what it is to participate in an Asian tournament, including the way the games are played, both individually and as a team,” said Fujii.

“Rather than tactics, I think each of our defences needs more leadership, including coaching, and to show more physical play, such as more concentration and tenacity in defence.”

His focus on the defensive side boils down to the fact that Japan have yet to keep a clean sheet.

Fujii and fellow centre-back Kento Shinozaki were ever-present for Nozomi Hiroyama’s side throughout the group stage.

While the defensive side of his game needs improvement, Fujii has also showcased his ability to be an option for the first point of attack, tasked with pinging accurate long diagonal passes to the forward player on the right flank.

“I think that is my greatest strength and I feel I am entrusted with this. In pressure situations, I can bring the flow by making side changes that turn the game on its head. 

“As a young player there are other aspects of my game where  I feel that I have a lot to work on, especially in terms of aerial duels.”

Just like any other player, Fujii has dreams of playing for the Samurai Blue one day.

“My ultimate goal is to play for the senior national team in international competitions. Also, if I have a long career, I want to win all the titles I can.”