“I only have positive things to say about my team,” said Funakoshi. “We obtained our first three points and that was the overall aim for us.

“Thailand had good individual technique and counter attacks, but we had good strikers and set-pieces and those strengths won us the match today.” 

Funakoshi, however, admitted there was more work to be done.

“We have to improve in all departments because our players are still young and they don't have much experience,” he said. “They have to control their mind, strengthen their mentality and be strong to win.” 

Thailand sprung to life after the break and launched numerous forays upfront but were let down by poor finishing and a formidable keeper in the form of Rui Akari.

Head coach Emerson Pereira admitted that Japan’s quality and speed as well as the lack of confidence shown by his side made it a difficult match to win.

“We knew before the game that it would be tough because Japan is a very good team,” he said. “They played at 300 kilometres in the first 15 minutes, and we could not match their speed."

“The team did improve as the match went on, especially in our buildup and how we sometimes broke their lines, but Japan have too much quality so it's difficult to play against them.

 

“We have the quality and we train hard but our players need to believe in themselves. My players can improve but we need more confidence.”

 

Matchday 2 on Monday will see Japan play Syria while Thailand meet Korea Republic.