Glasner Defensive Tactics Among The World’s Best, Kamada Says

Daichi Kamada says Oliver Glasner has shaped both club and international success, after Kamada scored an 88th‑minute equaliser for Japan against the Netherlands at the World Cup on 14 June 2026. Kamada links that moment to years of tactical work under the Austrian coach.

The Japan international explains that Glasner’s guidance built confidence and changed Kamada’s role into a deeper midfielder. That shift has strengthened Kamada’s place in Japan’s squad, where similar tactics are used, and has highlighted how closely national duties connect with Kamada’s club experience.

Kamada first worked with Glasner at Eintracht Frankfurt and later reunited at Crystal Palace in 2024. Under Glasner in Germany, Kamada played 93 matches in all competitions, then added 89 appearances for Palace, becoming a consistent starter trusted with demanding tactical tasks.

Speaking to Reuters, Kamada set out why the deeper role suits current football. "In modern football, we need more physicality, and unfortunately, I'm not such a fast player," Kamada, who scored Japan's equaliser against the Netherlands at the World Cup on Sunday, told Reuters.

The pair collected major honours together, lifting the Europa League, the Conference League and the FA Cup. Those campaigns strengthened Kamada’s belief in Glasner’s defensive structure, which Kamada now sees reflected with Japan, where the national side also lines up in a 3-4-3 formation.

Kamada stresses how Glasner changed career plans that began in youth football. "Oliver Glasner gave me the opportunity to play as a No. 6, and I've learned a lot about defending. Now I think we have many fast players, so that's why I play at No. 6. The other 10 players make runs deep and do something different. I was always thinking I could play as a No. 6, since I was 18."

Daichi Kamada and Oliver Glasner: impact on Japan national team tactics

The midfielder also links Glasner’s methods directly to Japan’s style. "I've always said his defensive tactics are among the best in the world, and Japan also play the same system, 3-4-3. I also can help the team with what we can improve because I've learned a lot from Oliver Glasner. We have improved a lot, but we're still not a top national team. We have to defend well, and his tactics really work for the Japanese national team right now."

Kamada’s recent World Cup goal and expanded responsibilities underline that influence. For observers across global football, including fans in the Middle East, Kamada’s development shows how a defined tactical role, long‑term trust from a coach and consistent club success can translate into stronger performances on the international stage.