Tsukasa Shiotani spoke of the renewed confidence Sanfrecce Hiroshima have in themselves, as they gear up for a Club World Cup semi-final clash with River Plate.

In addition to being a pillar in defence for Hajime Moriyasu’s side who have yet to concede, Shiotani has also got up the other end to get on the scoresheet, one each against Auckland City and TP Mazembe.

Despite racking up key goals for his team as they look ahead to Wednesday’s clash with River, Shiotani is keen to share the credit, saying his team-mates deserve equal credit for their climb.

Everyone is contributing to the team and that’s why we’re getting results,” he said. 

“It’s not about who’s doing what, it’s playing as a team that’s gotten us this far. That’s one of our strengths this season, and we have to keep that going.

“More than fatigue I just feel happy that we can play in this great tournament. There are a lot of players who want to play in the FIFA Club World Cup but can’t. 

“I’m incredibly fortunate to have been able to play in this tournament twice.”