Under the experienced and watchful eye of their coach, Brazil legend Zico, Japan became the last team to qualify for the FIFA Confederations thanks to a 3-1 Final victory over China in the Asian Cup in 2004. It was Japan's third Asian Cup triumph to add to previous titles in 1992 and 2000.

Already through to the World Cup in 2006, the Japanese continue to exert their dominance over their neighbors. They have also started to put together some impressive results around the world with a 1-0 win over the Czech Republic, a 1-1 draw with England and narrow defeats in Serbia and Montenegro and Argentina.

In Group B of the Confederations Cup, Japan could well be competing for second place if Brazil capture the top slot as expected. That would set up a semi-final clash with the top team from Group A -- which could be Germany or Argentina. (nda)