Japan Under-23 coach Takashi Sekizuka says his team s Olympics campaign is an important step toward qualifying for the 2014 World Cup.
Sekizuka s side kick-off their London campaign against Spain at Hampden Park on Thursday.
Sekizuka said that although their sights were set on the World Cup, the Japanese would approach the tournament in Great Britain with real pride .
The time has come to show what we have been working for in the two years we have been preparing for this, Sekizuka told reporters.
The Olympics are a high priority for the Japanese federation in the build-up to the World Cup in two years time.
This is the first step for making an impact at the World Cup but we will playing with a real pride to get good Olympic results.
Spain are among the favourites to win gold under Luis Milla and Sekizuka recognised the importance of the opening group match.
Spain are a very strong side but we will keep going for the 90 minutes and try to make the most out of it, the former Kawasaki Frontale boss said.
I have spoken to the players about how important the first game is and everyone is aware of that, we are looking forward to the Spain game and that game will have an impact on the group.
