Led by coach Futoshi Ikeda, the Nadeshiko racked up 15 goals, most of any team in the tournament. Surprising young midfielder Hinata Miyazawa had five goals to lead the field, matching Japanese legend Homare Sawa’s record set in 2011.
“We knew we were going to play a very skilled and technical team,” Sweden’s Kosovare Asllani said. “We didn’t want them to have a lot of time on the ball, because that’s when they’re the best.” Ikeda said the team could be proud of their accomplishments. The Japanese swept the group stage without conceding a goal, then downed Norway 3-1 in the round of 16.“Since I became coach, I knew I was taking them to the World Cup and I, together with the players, have worked hard to this point,” he said. “The players have become one unit, working in the same direction. We created an environment where each player can grow.
After the 3-1 loss to Sweden at the Tokyo Games, Takakura was replaced by Ikeda, who coached Japan to the 2018 Under-20 Women’s World Cup title. He helped develop many players on the team, including Miyazawa.
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