Humble Japan ready to win hearts at Women's Asian Cup
Nils Nielsen, the Japan women's football coach born in Greenland, holds no admiration for Donald Trump though he cherishes his squad and feels confident they can charm supporters at the Asian Cup in Australia.
The competition begins on Sunday with Japan counted among the leading hopefuls thanks to a gifted roster boasting at least 16 players from England alongside a fame for swift and engaging football.
While Australian supporters will rally strongly for their home side Nielsen reckons Japan's approach and character could earn them affection from the local crowd.
"Watching them is a delight due to their exceptional technical skills which is the approach we aim to foster" the 54 year old shared with AFP during a session at Japan's training facility near Tokyo.
"Its enjoyable viewing since we lack physical dominance so with proper organisation we remain vulnerable to defeat.
"Observing a diminutive figure achieve remarkable feats is always entertaining" he remarked.
Japan stands as the sole Asian nation to claim the Women's World Cup yet they have secured the Asian Cup just twice across 20 tournaments with their most recent victory in 2018.
Progressing from their opening group stage looks straightforward facing Taiwan Vietnam and India.
Nielsen took over as Japan's inaugural foreign born women's national team manager in December 2024 and the ex Denmark and Switzerland women's head noted he relishes each moment in the role.
"Not merely for the appeal of the nation but also the traits of the athletes" he explained.
"They work diligently stay modest and show keen interest in acquiring fresh knowledge possessing every quality required."
Not for sale
Nielsen's lineup features just four athletes from Japan's home WE League while the majority compete in elite divisions across Europe and North America.
Having served as technical director for Manchester City's women's side where he collaborated with Japan's current skipper Yui Hasegawa Nielsen possesses deep insight into English football.
The manager views Hasegawa as potentially Japan's key figure during the Asian Cup.
"Her drive is immense and she prioritises results over popularity which led to her captaincy" he noted about the 29 year old.
"Her foresight is unmatched allowing her to foresee plays independently and guide her teammates accordingly."
Nielsen offers sharper criticism towards US President Trump who has claimed Washington must govern Greenland a self ruling Danish region for US security interests.
Born in Nuuk the capital of the island Nielsen declared that Greenland remains "not for sale".
"I trust matters will resolve favourably" Nielsen stated.
"Yet why target the tiniest member of the group? Thats precisely his tactic.
"Thus I offer no regard. He ought to be removed from power."
Team first
Nielsen believes Trump might learn humility from observing his athletes.
"Consider last years SheBelieves Cup where Mina Tanaka shone brightest yet focused solely on collective effort" he commented.
"Such selfless traits are rare among elite footballers."
Nielsen anticipates this mindset will propel Japan forward in Australia following their 2023 World Cup quarter final appearance.
Victors of the 2011 World Cup Japan nearly added further accolades soon after but since 2015 they have not advanced beyond the World Cup or Olympic last eight.
"Japan excels with possession" Nielsen observed.
"They thrive advancing the ball proactively leveraging their quick thinking.
"Reverting to this play style is our primary goal."