Japan’s “Golden Era” fell between 2011-2015. During this time, they had won the 2011 World Cup, came runners up in the 2012 Summer Olympics, won the 2014 Asian Cup, and a second consecutive appearance in a World Cup final in 2015, making them the most successful Asian team at the time.
Although the team had all this success, there was little recognition of their achievements back home. The JFA (Japan Football Association) were even accused of sexism, as the women’s Olympic team flew economy, whereas the men’s Olympic team flew business class to the 2012 competition. They defended this comment by saying that the upgrade for the men “is recognition of their professional status”.
After a dark time for the Japanese side with failure to qualify for the 2016 Rio Olympics and being knocked out by Sweden in their home Olympics in 2021, support for the Nadeshiko had been resparked after the 2023 World Cup only after narrowly missing out on a place in the Semi-Final, losing 2-1 to Sweden. They will hope to carry this momentum and support into Paris 2024 and will look to progress far in the tournament.
Competitions like the Olympics are an integral part of the women’s football calendar, but hold much significance to Asian teams who are still developing their teams and talent. Progressing far in the Olympics could potentially mean high levels of respect from fans back home.
As football in Europe progresses at a rapid rate, many Japanese players choose to move, which not only advances the players’ career, it also benefits the national team. Over half of the roster for this year’s Olympics play outside of Asia, with many of them playing in the top domestic leagues in the world, like the WSL and the NWSL.
There are many influential players in this Japan side, but in particular Yui Hasegawa of Manchester City has been crucial in the midfield for Japan throughout the tournament. Noted as one of the most technical players in the WSL, she adds attacking play to this Japan side, by winning possession and driving up the pitch. She is an intelligent player who scouts space whenever she receives the ball in an attempt to drive, and create an attack. She is a pivotal part of this Japan team and will be integral for the knockout stages of the tournament.
Ultimately, the aim at this Olympics for Japan is to ensure that any support they built from a successful 2023 World Cup campaign is not lost. Gaining the respect of the country is important for the growth of women’s football in Asia.
Nadeshiko will face giants USA at 3pm local time in Paris and will look to cause an upset to Emma Hayes’ first tournament in charge.
Photo – Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images – https://www.fourfourtwo.com/features/japan-women-world-cup-2023-squad-team-roster-players
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2012-07-19/class-war-among-japanese-olympic-footballers/4141354
