The Japan women’s national team has long been associated with their remarkable triumph in the 2011 Women’s World Cup, which brought hope and joy to a nation devastated by the Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. However, in the years following their historic victory, the Japanese Football Association (JFA) failed to build upon this success, resulting in the team’s decline on the global stage. Now, at the 2023 Women’s World Cup, Japan is once again showing signs of their former glory. With an impressive run in the tournament, they have proven that they have returned to the summit of women’s football.
Despite the immense potential showcased by the team’s victory in 2011, the JFA did not capitalize on this success. The short-term vision of the association led to a lack of investment and attention to women’s football, preventing Japan from maintaining their status among the global elite.
In subsequent tournaments, such as the 2015 World Cup and the 2019 edition, Japan fell short of expectations. The team appeared lackluster and unconvincing, failing to exhibit their best football. Even under the guidance of new coaches, such as Asako Takakura, Japan struggled to find their form and make an impact on the international stage.
In their quest for redemption, the JFA turned to the youth set-up and appointed Futoshi Ikeda as the head coach. Ikeda’s reserved demeanor and tactical adjustments signaled a departure from the previous coach’s approach. Although the initial results were not promising, a tweak in formation and a renewed focus on young players gradually led to a resurgence in Japan’s performance.
The turning point came during the SheBelieves Cup earlier this year when Japan faced strong opposition, including the United States and Brazil. Despite finishing as runners-up, the team displayed glimpses of their former selves, securing a notable victory against Canada and pushing their opponents to the limit.
The revitalization of Japan’s women’s national team can be attributed to various factors. Beyond the influence of coach Ikeda and the strategic formation change, the players’ experiences gained from playing both domestically and internationally have been crucial.
Many of Japan’s players have sought opportunities to grow their game beyond the borders of their home league. Whether it’s through playing in Europe or the United States, these individuals have experienced different styles of play and challenged themselves in unfamiliar environments. This exposure has added layers of depth to the national team.
The infusion of these diverse experiences is apparent throughout the squad. Young talents like Yui Hasegawa, Jun Endo, and Hinata Miyazawa have blossomed, showcasing their technical abilities and making significant contributions to the team. The emerging stars, coupled with the consistency of veterans like Saki Kumagai, have created a formidable and adaptable unit.
Similar to their successful campaign in 2011, the current Japan team is capturing attention and support from neutrals around the world. However, they face the unfortunate reality of limited support from their own federation and home fans. This familiar scenario raises concerns about the long-term impact of their success and the commitment of the JFA to invest in the future.
As Japan progresses in the 2023 Women’s World Cup, their journey of redemption symbolizes the resilience and determination of a team capable of overcoming adversity. Their resurgence highlights the importance of sustained investment in women’s football and provides hope for a brighter future for the sport in Japan.
The resurgence of Japan’s women’s national team serves as a reminder of the power of unity, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence. Their journey, marked by ups and downs, showcases the potential for growth and success when obstacles are overcome. As they continue to stake their claim in the Women’s World Cup, Japan’s players prove that their place among the world’s best is well-deserved.
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