Japan Target 'New History' in Women's Asian Cup

Japan's coach Nils Nielsen stated that his squad aims to create "new history" by clinching the Asian Women's Cup next month. He unveiled a 16-player contingent from England in his lineup on Thursday.

Japan stands as the sole Asian nation to claim the Women's World Cup title. Yet they have secured the Asian Cup just twice across 20 tournaments with the most recent success in 2018.

The Greenlander Nielsen marking the first overseas born manager for Japan's women's side believes it is high time to rectify that when the event begins in Australia on March 1.

"Historically it has not been straightforward for Japan to triumph in this competition" remarked the 54 year old who assumed the role in December 2024.

"Our goal is to forge new history which means we cannot rest content without the ultimate trophy since we possess a squad capable of achieving it."

Manchester United forward Hinata Miyazawa who led the scoring at the 2023 World Cup features in the 26 member group alongside Manchester City duo Yui Hasegawa and Aoba Fujino.

Defender Saki Kumagai holding 164 international appearances persists from the 2011 World Cup winning side.

Merely four athletes from Japan's home WE League earned selection.

Nielsen noted that minimal injuries made the ultimate choices "not too challenging".

"In the end we assembled a diverse mix so we feel well equipped for any situation" he added.

"We avoided selecting numerous similar profiles to ensure that substitutes introduce fresh elements on the field."

Japan ought to progress smoothly from their opening group stage featuring Taiwan Vietnam and India.

"Regardless of what adversaries devise I am confident our roster holds the solutions" Nielsen affirmed.