The Japan women’s national team at the 2023 Women’s World Cup has captured the attention of fans worldwide. But to truly appreciate their current success, we must first reflect on their turbulent past. The 2011 Women’s World Cup serves as a bittersweet memory, as it showcased the team’s resilience amidst the devastating Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. However, despite their triumph, the Japanese Football Association (JFA) allowed complacency to hinder the growth of women’s football in the country. This article analyzes Japan’s journey to redemption and how they have positioned themselves at the pinnacle of the sport once again.
Following their victorious campaign in 2011, Japan’s performance in subsequent tournaments left much to be desired. The 2015 World Cup in Canada exposed a lackadaisical approach from the team, with Coach Norio Sasaki failing to evolve his strategies. The squad’s uninspired display ultimately led to a crushing defeat in the final against the U.S. The 2019 tournament witnessed a similar outcome, as Japan fell short under the guidance of new coach Asako Takakura. Their elimination in the round of 16 was a testament to their unconvincing performance on the pitch.
In an effort to rejuvenate the team, the JFA turned to Futoshi Ikeda, a coach with a successful track record in developing young Japanese footballers. Ikeda’s reserved demeanor differed greatly from his predecessor, Sasaki. Initially, Japan’s football appeared lackluster and disjointed under Ikeda’s leadership. However, a switch to a 3-4-3 formation and a renewed faith in the youth players gradually brought about positive change. It was during the SheBelieves Cup in 2022 that Japan finally showed signs of reclaiming their former glory. Although they finished second to the U.S., their impressive performances against Canada, the U.S., and Brazil demonstrated a team on the rise.
Ikeda’s impact on the team is undeniable, but Japan’s success extends beyond his coaching methods. The squad has benefitted from a combination of experiences gained from playing both domestically and internationally. The establishment of the Women Empowerment League, Asia’s only fully professional women’s league, by the Japanese FA has played a pivotal role in enhancing the technical skills and professionalism of the players. Additionally, many team members have pursued opportunities abroad to further develop their game. From midfielder Yui Hasegawa’s stints in Italy and England to forward Jun Endo’s move to Angel City FC in the U.S., each player’s exposure to different styles and leagues has added a layer of depth to the national team.
The current Japan team boasts a wealth of young talent that has flourished under Ikeda’s tutelage. Midfielder Hinata Miyazawa’s emergence as a goal-scoring threat, Hasegawa’s exceptional vision, and Aoba Fujino’s consistency in attack demonstrate the team’s versatility. The calmness of captain Saki Kumagai in defense, the tireless running of Mina Tanaka up front, and Fuka Nagano’s metronomic presence in midfield further solidify Japan’s resurgence. This team is not only adaptable but also possesses the ability to dominate with or without possession of the ball.
Despite Japan’s remarkable journey at the World Cup, they face a disheartening lack of support from their own federation and home fans. The absence of backing from the JFA raises concerns about the future of women’s football in the country. Each victory carries with it the unspoken question of what success could mean for the team’s future if the JFA fails to invest in its development.
The Japan women’s national team has experienced a remarkable resurgence on the global stage. Their triumphs in the 2023 Women’s World Cup demonstrate their determination and resilience. However, the journey to redemption has not been without its challenges. Japan’s success is a testament to the team’s ability to learn from experiences both within and outside the nation. As they continue to defy expectations, one can’t help but wonder what the future holds for this historic team and whether their accomplishments will catalyze meaningful change within their home country.
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