Leeds United midfielder Ao Tanaka issued a defiant message after Japan’s last-32 exit to Brazil. The player took responsibility for a decisive mistake and vowed to respond.

What happened?

Tanaka won the ball from Endrick on the edge of his area, was quickly dispossessed, and Brazil struck what proved to be the winner. The 27-year-old was consoled at full-time by team-mates and Manchester United attacker Matheus Cunha.

Reaction from team-mates

Tanaka wrote that his own abilities were not good enough, promised to rise again, and expressed gratitude to team-mates, staff, and supporters. Takumi Minamino and Ko Itakura replied, “Just do it”. Sporting CP’s Hidemasa Morita posted a phoenix emoji, an image Tanaka has used for himself after returning from last season’s brief wilderness to contribute in the final third of Leeds’ campaign.

Support from Leeds United

Support also arrived from Leeds, with likes on his post from Jayden Bogle, Willy Gnonto, and Anton Stach, along with the recently departed Pascal Struijk and Illan Meslier. As of now, Leeds United is 14th in the Premier League, 47 points behind leaders Arsenal, with a recent form of LWDWD. The team has scored 49 goals this season and conceded 56, resulting in a -7 goal difference.

What comes next?

Tanaka’s emotion has surfaced before, and he has shown his ability to bounce back from difficult situations. With the World Cup behind him, Tanaka will look to focus on Leeds United's upcoming matches and help the team improve their standing in the Premier League.