Endo returns as Japan look to build on Brazil win

Liverpools Wataru Endo earned a spot on Thursday in the World Cupqualifying Japans team for domestic matches versus Ghana and Bolivia, as the squad aims to capitalise on their landmark initial victory against Brazil.

Hajime Moriyasus team overturned a two goal deficit to defeat the five time champions 3 2 during a friendly in Tokyo last month, sending a strong message before next years tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Japan will face other World Cup contenders Ghana in Toyota on November 14, followed by a match against Bolivia at Tokyos National Stadium just four days later.

Bolivia retains an opportunity to qualify via a play off, having ended up seventh in the South American qualification process.

Japan also rallied from a trailing position to secure a dramatic 2 2 draw in a friendly against Paraguay last month.

In both October fixtures we found ourselves behind and fought back, and I expect the team to display that same unity and determination before our domestic supporters in these upcoming encounters, Moriyasu commented.

Endo sat out the triumph over Brazil due to an injury, but the midfielder is back alongside Premier League colleagues Daichi Kamada from Crystal Palace and Ao Tanaka of Leeds United.

The injured Brighton forward Kaoru Mitoma did not make the cut, having skipped the Brazil clash and not featured for his side since leaving the pitch hurt against Chelsea on September 27.

Feyenoord forward Ayase Ueda, topping the Dutch leagues goal tally with 13 strikes and scoring the decisive goal versus Brazil, received another selection.

Moriyasu gave debut invitations to Red Bull Salzburg attacker Sota Kitano and the Sint Truiden duo Leo Brian Kokubo and Keisuke Goto.