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Japan scream off to Germany for World Cup
(Reuters)
Updated: 2006-05-27 17:18

TOKYO, May 26 - Japan's World Cup squad were seen off by around 300 screaming fans at Narita airport when they left for Germany on Friday.

"I am looking forward to doing the best job I can," Japan coach Zico told reporters. "We're aiming to win the tournament."

The squad were treated to soccer ball-shaped German ham and sausage for dinner on board their Japan Airlines flight to Frankfurt.

The Asian champions were scheduled to arrive at their World Cup base in the former West German capital Bonn on Friday evening local time.

They play warm-up games against tournament hosts Germany and Malta before their Group F opener against Australia on June 12. Japan's group also includes Croatia and holders Brazil.

Dressed in matching light grey suits, Japan's 23-man squad were greeted by hundreds of female fans and jostling camera crews when they arrived for their flight.

Zico, looking relaxed and posing for snap shots, was presented with a bouquet of flowers by airline staff wearing Japan replica shirts before boarding.

Eleven members of the Japan squad played at the 2002 World Cup which the country co-hosted with South Korea. Japan reached the last 16 under Frenchman Philippe Troussier four years ago.

They will be making their third World Cup finals appearance after also qualifying in 1998.

Beethoven's home town Bonn has already been decked out in Japanese blue banners to welcome the squad and their army of fans.

The Japanese squad and officials have taken over a 252-room Hilton hotel on the banks of the Rhine.