Japan made history at the 2011 World Cup becoming the first Asian team to win football’s biggest prize. The Nadeshiko surprised many as they toppled Germany, Sweden and the USA to claim a memorable victory. Four years on, they appear to be flying in under the radar once more.
Japan made it four wins out of four at this summer’s World Cup by beating the Netherlands 2-1 in the Last 16 stage in Vancouver. The Japanese are now the only team in the tournament with a 100% record.
Saori Ariyoshi gave her side the advantage after 10 minutes, slamming home after Yuki Ogimi had hit the crossbar with a header. Mizuho Sakaguchi doubled the lead with a classy finish 12 minutes from time, before a goalkeeping error from Ayumi Kaihori gifted the Netherlands a late consolation.
Australia will be Japan’s next obstacle but the current world champions will be favourites to reach the semi-final stage where they will meet either hosts Canada or England.
But what do actually know about Japan? To help, here’s more information on 5 key players from last night’s starting XI.
RB – Saori Ariyoshi
Ariyoshi’s 10th minute strike against the Netherlands was her first international goal, surprising considering the accuracy with which she found the bottom corner. The 27 year old gets up and down the pitch with ease and looks more than comfortable on the ball.
CB- Saki Kumagai
Kumagai is comfortably the tallest of the Japanese squad, but at 5 foot 8 inches many opposing strikers still tower over her. Despite that, the 24 year old has proved herself to be a reliable defender for club, Lyon, and country.
CM- Mizuho Sakaguchi
Sakaguchi likes to pull the strings in the middle of the Japanese midfield. She produced one of her best ever performances against the Dutch, earning the player of the match award and showing her class with a stylish finish to double the lead.
LM- Aya Miyama (c)
An ever present in the Japan side, the 30 year old leads by example and has so far proved to be a fully capable captain since taking the armband in 2012. Her penalty against the Swiss in their opening match showed she has a cool head on her experienced shoulders.
ST- Yuki Ogimi
The former Chelsea striker is always a danger in the penalty box and finally scored her first World Cup goal in the 1-0 win over Ecuador. But with over 50 international goals, don’t be surprised to see Ogimi pop up with another before the tournament is over.
