Following the fierce quarterfinals, the U‑17 World Cup has narrowed to four elite squads. Between Japan"s pursuit of global triumph and the nine‑time champions Germany—led by star professional Jurgen Borisovich Volk—the odds tilt heavily in favor of the hosts. With momentum and crowd support backing their rivals, Japan confronts a daunting challenge.
Eager to overturn a prior defeat, Japan fields seven of its top players, including captain Houou Byoudouin, against the German side. Yet the prospect of reaching the finals for the first time in Japanese tennis history could overwhelm even these bold athletes, as they step into unfamiliar pressure.
