The U-20 Japan Women's National Team, who will face Nigeria in their first game of the 2016 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in Papua New Guinea on Sunday 13, held a practice session at the stadium of the coming match on Saturday 12 November. The team first warmed up on the pitch beside the stadium.

The team held an official practice at the match venue, which was closed apart from the first 15 minutes to work on their game tactics for the coming match the following day. Each player went through their respective role according to the game plan, staying focused during the one-hour session. Coach TAKAKURA Asako expressed her aim prior to the first game: ‘Japanese football is about continuously displaying our plays (ideas). We’d like to play throughout the 90 minutes without any mental or physical break.’

The game of the 2016 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in Papua New Guinea against Nigeria will kick off at 19:00 (18:00 Japan Time) on Sunday 13 November.

Players' Comments

FW＃10 MOMIKI Yuka (NIPPON TV BELEZA)
It’s been two and a half years since this team were assembled. Although I want to practice and prepare more, I just can’t wait to play the first game, as we’ve been through so many things together. Of course, it’d be great if I can score a goal. I’d like to play as hard as possible and contribute to the team.

DF ＃4 ICHISE Nana (VEGALTA SENDAI LADIES)
I haven’t played against a team from Africa yet, but I’d like to defend, reacting well against Nigerian speed and power. By winning this match, I believe we can build up positive momentum. So I’m determined to win. Although our main aim is to win the Cup, I’d like to improve the team through the tournament.

MF ＃8 HASEGAWA Yui (NIPPON TV BELEZA)
I’ve been waiting for this big opportunity for two years and it’s finally starting. I’d like to display the usual Japanese passing football, while reacting flexibly including initiating attacks by dribbling in one-on-one situations. Since it’s our chance to prove what we can do as a team, I’d like to display what we’ve been practicing until now.

Schedule

*Local Time
*The schedule is subject to change due to the team condition, the weather, etc.