Zaccheroni holds hands up after quitting Japan
Former Japan national soccer team coach, Alberto Zaccheroni. Photo credit: REUTERS/Toru Hanai
Alberto Zaccheroni stepped down as Japan coach yesterday after taking full responsibility for the Asian champions' group stage exit at the World Cup.
Japan's dismal World Cup campaign ended with a 4-1 defeat by Colombia on Tuesday as they finished bottom of Group C with only one point after a loss to Ivory Coast and a 0-0 draw with 10-man Greece.
"I am the one that decided on the tactics and how we play and I want to take full responsibility," the Italian said.
"Everyone got together at lunch today and I offered my thanks to all the people that have supported the team. I would select exactly the same players and staff if I had another chance."
Japan will attempt to defend their Asian Cup title in Australia in January.
