A new-look Japan managed to further cement their credentials as favorites for the upcoming 2023 AFC Asian Cup after the Samurai Blue had obliterated Thailand 5-0 in their New Year’s Day friendly at the National Stadium in Tokyo. With a number of their star players remaining in Europe to fulfil their winter commitments at their respective clubs, Japan head coach Hajime Moriyasu decided to shake things up by introducing a number of fresh faces in their match against Thailand. Sanfrecce Hiroshima star Takumu Kawamura made his national team debut, while Junya Ito deputizes for usual captain Wataru…