Over the years, football in Japan has experienced remarkable growth, with both the men’s and women’s teams gaining international recognition. The Japanese women’s national team, known as Nadeshiko Japan, has achieved notable success and established a formidable presence in women’s football.
On the global stage, Japan has emerged as a formidable force. They secured the FIFA Women’s World Cup title in 2011 and reached the final once again in 2015, finishing as runners-up. This success propelled women’s football in Japan and inspired a new generation of players. While Japan has consistently produced technical talents, its position has faced challenges since 2011. Following a disappointing campaign in the AFC Asian Cup last year, the upcoming World Cup holds significant importance for Japan.
In the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, Japan finds itself placed in Group C, alongside tough opponents such as Costa Rica, Spain, and Zambia. The matches against Zambia, who have shown promising form, and Spain, known for their technical prowess, will undoubtedly test Japan’s skills and determination.
FIFA World Ranking: 11
Final Squad Review and Omissions
Japan’s final squad for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup consists of a blend of experienced players and young talent. The team showcases skilful attackers, composed midfielders, and solid defenders. The selection process considered players’ form, fitness, and tactical suitability.
𝗙𝗜𝗙𝗔 𝗪𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗻'𝘀 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗖𝘂𝗽 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟯🇦🇺🇳🇿🏆#なでしこジャパン 招集メンバー🔹
ユニフォーム背番号＆ネーム一覧🔢
背番号＆ネーム入り『アディダス サッカー日本女子代表 2023 ユニフォーム』は、アディダスオンラインショップで受付中✨
ホーム オーセンティック… pic.twitter.com/UINqvKbswA
— JFAなでしこサッカー (@jfa_nadeshiko) July 10, 2023
While finalizing the squad is always a challenging task, one notable omission from the final roster was Mana Iwabuchi. Iwabuchi, recognized for her creativity and goal-scoring ability, was left out due to her limited game time throughout the season.
The Coach and His Record
Futoshi Ikeda serves as the head coach of the Japan women’s national team. He assumed the role in October 2021 and has achieved a record of 11 wins, 2 draws, and 3 losses during his tenure. Previously, Ikeda coached the Japan U-20 team, leading them to the final of the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup.
As a former player for Japan, Ikeda carries a wealth of experience. He is highly respected as a coach and is known for his attacking style of play.
Expectations in the Tournament
With a rich history in women’s football and past success in major tournaments, Japan enters the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup with high expectations. Fans anticipate a competitive performance from the team. Considering their strong track record in multiple Asian Cup appearances and their World Cup victory in 2011, Japan is expected to display their skills on the international stage.
Japan’s style is characterized by technical wizardry. They excel in delivering perfectly weighted crosses, incisive passes, intelligent off-the-ball movement, and clinical finishing. With a team naturally gifted like Japan, expectations are naturally high. Fans can expect determined defensive efforts, a press-resistant midfield, and versatile forwards who constantly interchange positions.
Japan aims to showcase their technical skills, tactical discipline, and ability to dominate possession in every match. The team’s objective is to progress through the group stages and make a deep run in the knockout phase, ultimately aiming to reclaim the trophy.
Ones to Watch
Yui Hagesawa, with her exceptional league form, is a player to keep an eye on in the midfield, serving as a vital component. The versatile captain, Saki Kumagai, will be crucial to Japan’s defensive efforts, while goalkeeper Yamashita will need to perform at her very best.
Conclusion
Japan’s women’s national team enters the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup with a rich footballing heritage and a strong desire to compete at the highest level. Their past achievements, coupled with the talent and experience within the squad, make them a formidable team.
With their commitment to technical prowess, disciplined defending, and possession-based style of play, Japan aims to leave their mark on the tournament. Fans can expect an exciting brand of football from Nadeshiko Japan as they strive to reclaim the world title and solidify their position as one of the leading forces in women’s football.
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