Japan's Osim snaps into search and destroy mode

HANOI, July 24 (Reuters) Japan coach Ivica Osim's cat and mouse games with the media at the Asian Cup more closely resembled a search and destroy mission today.

Even the most innocuous questions were once again shot down in flames by the fire-brand Bosnian before tomorrow's semi-final against Saudi Arabia.

''Maybe I'll just change all 11 players because we're playing different opposition,'' Osim growled at innocent inquiry about his thoughts on the Saudis.

''I don't know why I have to sit here and answer these daft questions time and time again. It's a real shame.'' Osim's siege mentality deteriorated to the point that he prematurely ordered reporters not to look for scapegoats -- more than 24 hours before the holders take on Saudi Arabia.

''If you are looking for someone to blame for Japan losing I am sitting right here,'' the 66-year-old snapped.

''Don't look for a player to blame. I'll take full responsibility.'' Refusing to play a straight bat to any question during today's news conference in Hanoi, Osim's replies were short and dripping with sarcasm.

BRAVE SOUL ''That's not a very good question,'' he admonished one brave soul, who had dared to ask if Osim thought the semi-final would be a clash of styles.

''Do you want me to say here and now that Saudi Arabia don't play with a system? If I were to say something like that it would give them more ammunition, more motivation.'' He added: ''Saudi Arabia are a very dangerous team. They play very aggressive, modern football. Our players are tired so it is conceivable we could get knocked out.'' Japan are bidding to win their third consecutive Asian Cup title and fourth overall. The Saudis won the last of their three Asian Cups in 1996.

The defending champions beat Saudi Arabia 1-0 in the 2000 final in Beirut.

''I don't want to talk about the past history between the teams.

I only want to talk about tomorrow's game,'' shrugged Osim, before triggering a roar of laughter by adding: ''If you talk about tomorrow's match it's important to remember the history between the two teams.'' Reuters BJR DB1344