Tuesday, 17th May, 2011
Japan have withdrawn from the 2011 Copa America for a second time. The Asian nation had been invited to play, but first chose to pull out after the devastating earthquake and tsunami hit in March.
But the Blue Samurai had a change of heart, with an emphasis on using fringe players, some based in Europe, and once again confirmed their participation. Now however, the Japanese have been forced to do a U-turn, with a number of clubs unwilling to release their players given Japan is not a South American country.
"I am very sorry to inform you that the Japanese squad can no long participate in the 2011 Copa America in Argentina and I also present my sincerest apologies", said Japanese FA chairman Junji Ogura in a letter published on the association’s website.
Costa Rica are expected to take Japan’s place in Group A alongside Argentina, Colombia and Bolivia.
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