The Japan women's football national team, aiming for a third consecutive victory in the EAFF E-1 Championship, was not satisfied with the win against Taiwan. Although some players were nervous at the beginning of the match, their overall performance and ability to create chances were evaluated positively.
The Japan women's football national team, led by coach Nils Nielsen, achieved a 4-0 victory against Taiwan in a match held at Suwon World Cup Stadium on the 9th at 4:30 p.m.
In the post-match press conference, Coach Nielsen noted, "Although we could only train twice, I am satisfied with the chances we created." With this victory, Japan signaled a smooth start toward both a generational transition and winning the championship.
The debut performance of left-back Miu Wakata also stood out. Coach Nielsen praised, "Miu usually plays as a winger for her club, but today she played as a fullback and showed great performance in both defense and attack. Fullbacks on the Japan team need to have aggressive movements as well, and she lived up to those expectations."
Captain Hina Takahashi also received applause for her dedication. During the match, she played multiple positions, acting as a forward in the first half and a sweeper and fullback in the second half. Coach Nielsen praised, "Hina is a perfect captain who prioritizes 'one team.' She scored a wonderful goal and could even excel as a goalkeeper."
Although there were variables like the kickoff at 4:30 p.m. in hot and humid conditions, the players adapted skillfully. Coach Nielsen joked, "It was similar weather to Japan, so the players might have been used to it. A foreigner like me might have had a harder time," and added, "We could have scored more goals, but we struggled with maintaining focus and pace."
He continued, "Today, the players gave their best. It was a game that showed what kind of players they are and what kind of team this is," expressing satisfaction.
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