Japan is making a brief stop in Monterrey, Mexico, during its World Cup journey, but the early returns have not been encouraging.
In fact, Japan changed practice venues within the city Thursday after encountering subpar conditions at Tigres UANL’s field.
Video of Japan training at Tigres’ facility went viral on Mexican social media Wednesday, as the pitch had visible signs of wear.
While the Japanese delegation did not say why it moved Thursday, players headed to a different part of the metro area and practiced at El Barrial, the practice facility belonging to Tigres’ rival C.F. Monterrey.
Japan will set up its base camp in Nashville, Tennessee, but won’t arrive there until Monday.
Samurai Blue opens Group F play against the Netherlands on June 14 in Arlington, Texas. Japan will face Tunisia at Estadio BBVA in Guadalupe, the home of C.F. Monterrey, on June 20 and return to Arlington to play Sweden on June 25.