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Shunichiro Okano, president of the Japan Football Association, has told the national team to make the country proud at the World Cup.

The co-hosts face a tough task to qualify from Group H, lining up alongside Russia, Belgium and Tunisia.

Having bowed out at the group phase in France four years ago, the Japanese are eager to give their fans a taste of glory on home soil.

"I hope this team makes history," said Okano.

"We have played in the World Cup only once and we haven't earned any wins yet.

"I hope this team comes together and shows everyone what we can do."