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Jose Mourinho has slammed the 'big focus on egos' in European football following Japan's sensational victory over Germany at the World Cup.
Japan stunned Germany at the Khalifa International Stadium on Wednesday as they came from behind to win their Group E opener 2-1.
Goals from Ritsu Doan and Takuma Asano ensured a famous World Cup win and a real chance to advance to the next round of the tournament.
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However, Japan's upset against Germany was 'not a crazy surprise' according to AS Roma manager Mourinho, who insisted Asian players have a 'really special' mentality.
The former Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham boss also believes that European football has too much of a 'big focus on egos'.
The 59-year-old said: "I think in this moment in European football, there is a big focus on the individual, a big focus on egos.
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"When I look to your profile as people, your profile as a country, I have never coached Japanese players, but I have coached Asian players.
"In my case, I was lucky because I have coached the best Asian player, [Son Heung-min], and I understand that the mentality is really special.
"The team is the most important thing. People play for the team, they do not play for themselves."
Mourinho continued by hailing Japan's 'fantastic achievement' but insists they should not be underestimated.
"Of course, it is a fantastic achievement, but to be honest, it was not like a crazy surprise," he added.
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"Japan is a good team, it has good players, and it is getting experiences at these events.
"The majority of their players play in Europe where they develop faster and they understand better what is the high-level game.
"I think the mentality of the players and the team can also make a difference."
Japan resume their Qatar venture on Sunday when they face Costa Rica.
Topics: Jose Mourinho, Germany, Football World Cup, Football
Nasir Jabbar