Japan Falls Short in Inaugural 4v4 Asian Cup, Honda Reflects on Youth Development Initiative

The first international 4v4 football tournament, the "TOYOTA Presents, 4v4 ASIAN CUP 2024-25," recently concluded at the Ota City General Gymnasium, with host nation Japan unable to secure the championship title. The innovative four-a-side format, conceptualized by former Japan international Keisuke Honda, aims to foster independent thinking and decision-making among young footballers.

Honda's 4v4 concept is designed for youth development, particularly for players aged 10 and under. A core tenet of the game is the absence of coaches or parents on the sidelines, compelling young athletes to strategize and make substitutions themselves. Unique rules include a 20-second shot clock and point scoring based on the shot's origin, encouraging an attacking and engaging style of play.

Keisuke Honda, who has been a vocal advocate for youth development, initiated the 4v4 format to cultivate self-reliant individuals through football. He emphasized that for this age group, results are secondary to the children's strong desire to compete and develop. The format has seen significant adoption in Japan, with over 16,000 young players participating and receiving positive feedback from parents and coaches.

The 4v4 Asian Cup marks a significant step in the international expansion of the format, spearheaded by Honda's company, Now Do Inc. Regional qualifiers, such as the 4v4 Singapore Cup, have been held to select teams from across the continent, including South Korea, Thailand, Hong Kong, and the Philippines, to compete in the main tournament.

Following Japan's performance, Keisuke Honda reflected on the event, describing it as "a tournament that felt both anxious and enjoyable." The tournament not only showcased emerging talent but also reinforced the foundational principles of the 4v4 initiative, focusing on the holistic development of young players rather than solely on competitive outcomes.