‘I appreciate the behavior of Japan players’ - Otto Addo on Ao Tanaka's apology

Black Stars coach Otto Addo has commended Japan’s conduct following Ghana’s 2–0 defeat in the 2025 Kirin Cup on Friday, describing the hosts as exemplary both on and off the pitch.

Ghana were undone by goals from Takumi Minamino and Ritsu Doan in either half at the Toyota Stadium, a result Addo attributed partly to the unfamiliar nature of his starting lineup.

Addressing the media after the match, he noted that the group fielded against Japan had little experience playing together and stressed that the encounter formed part of the team’s broader World Cup build-up.

“There are still a few matches to prepare for the World Cup. So, I would like to learn enough from the players who played today. I think it’s too soon. I would like to make a lot of changes from today’s learning. But this time, it was a new setup. Today’s team has rarely played together before.”

Addo also highlighted a moment of sportsmanship that stood out on the night. Japanese midfielder Ao Tanaka approached the Ghana bench to apologise for the challenge that left Abu Francis with a serious injury, a gesture the coach said spoke volumes about the values instilled in the Japanese team.

“I really appreciate that the player (Tanaka) also comes not only to our players to say sorry for what happened, but comes to me as a coach.

“We don’t take this kind of behaviour for granted. I think it’s a very, very good education here in Japan. And the players just to say sorry means a lot, and I told him I really appreciate that," he added.

The Black Stars have since left Japan for Seoul, where they will face South Korea in their final match of the international window on Tuesday, November 18, 2025.