Who Is Hajime Moriyasu? 5 Facts About the Famous Note-Taking Japan Coach

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu, who became an internet sensation during the 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cup for constantly writing in his trademark notebook and using a large whiteboard on the touchline, was overcome with emotion following his team's Round of 32 exit. 

From his tactical notebook to his emotional leadership, Hajime Moriyasu has become one of football's most recognizable coaches. If you were moved by his emotional World Cup farewell, here is a closer look at his career and legacy as cited from various sources. 

Hajime Moriyasu Bows Down to Fans Upon Elimination 

Japan's 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign came to an end with a Round of 32 defeat to Brazil, leaving head coach Hajime Moriyasu visibly emotional after the final whistle. 

Fighting back tears, Moriyasu apologized to supporters, saying he was deeply disappointed that he could not reward the fans who traveled to the stadium or watched from home, and admitted the responsibility for the team's exit rested with him as coach.

Hajime Moriyasu Shed Tears during National Anthem 

Ahead of Japan's opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, head coach Hajime Moriyasu became emotional during the national anthem, wiping away tears as he stood on the touchline. 

Later explaining that "many things" had crossed his mind, Moriyasu's reaction reflected both the pride of becoming the first coach to lead Japan at multiple World Cups and the lingering memories of the team's heartbreaking exit in 2022.

Hajime Moriyasu’s Career on the Field 

Born in Nagasaki Prefecture in 1968, Hajime Moriyasu enjoyed a modest playing career before rising to prominence as a coach. One of the defining moments of his time as a player came in 1993's "Agony of Doha," when Japan conceded a stoppage-time equalizer against Iraq in the final World Cup qualifier, narrowly missing out on its first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance.

Hajime Moriyasu as the ‘Light Yagami’ 

Hajime Moriyasu has gone viral at both the 2022 and 2026 FIFA World Cups for his trademark habit of constantly writing in a notebook from the touchline. The now-iconic routine has inspired humorous comparisons to Death Note, calling him the 'Light Yagami' of the pitch.

Hajime Moriyasu’s Coaching Career is Expansive 

From domestic success in the J.League to leading Japan on the world stage, Hajime Moriyasu has steadily established himself as one of the country's most accomplished coaches.

Moriyasu's coaching career spans the J.League, Japan's Olympic team, and the senior national squad, giving him experience at every level of the game. As head coach, he has refined Japan's tactical identity by embracing an aggressive pressing system and fast-paced transitions.

Although Japan's World Cup journey has come to an end, Hajime Moriyasu's leadership, tactical approach, and unwavering passion have left a lasting impression on football fans around the world. 

To keep up with the tournament, be sure to read our FIFA World Cup Round of 32 schedule for the latest fixtures, kickoff times, and the remaining teams battling for a place in the next stage.

Read: What Zion Suzuki Said After Japan's Loss to Brazil in the World Cup

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