Moriyasu's 'Death Note': Japan's World Cup Secret?

Japan's dramatic 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in the FIFA World Cup 2026 has led to a resurgence of the "Death Note" meme associated with coach Hajime Moriyasu. The trend emerged after Japan staged a spirited comeback, scoring a late equalizer through Daichi Kamada to secure a point against a favored opponent.

Fans on social media jokingly suggested that Moriyasu used his "mysterious notebook" to influence the game, a meme that has circulated in previous tournaments. This phenomenon stems from Moriyasu's reputation for making bold tactical adjustments and trusting substitutes during critical moments.

The "Death Note" meme draws inspiration from a popular Japanese manga and anime series where a supernatural notebook grants the power to kill anyone whose name is written within it. In the context of football, it humorously represents Moriyasu's perceived ability to devise game-changing strategies.

This meme serves as a lighthearted acknowledgment of Moriyasu's effective coaching, particularly his knack for finding solutions in challenging situations. The draw against the Netherlands, after trailing twice, once again highlighted his tactical acumen and the team's persistent spirit, prompting a fresh wave of "Death Note" references online.