AFC U20 Women's Asian Cup
After two comfortable wins against India and Chinese Taipei, Epakis always knew his side's sternest test would come against Japan, and his expectation was confirmed as the six-time champions handed the Young Matildas a 5-2 defeat on Wednesday.
“I think just from statistics, it is clear that we need to improve defensively,” said the 35-year-old. “But it also shows that from an attacking point of view, we can be a threat against a strong team, and that is a huge positive.
“Our quarter-final fixture will, of course, be a tough contest, and what we need to do is use the disappointment as motivation. We know we’ve got improvement in us, and we need to extract that quickly, build on our strengths, and address some of our weak areas.”
“Our quarter-final fixture will, of course, be a tough contest, and what we need to do is use the disappointment as motivation. We know we’ve got improvement in us, and we need to extract that quickly, build on our strengths, and address some of our weak areas.”
The Japan-Australia tie, besides being a memorable match, also stood out for the lively scenes on the sidelines, with family members of the Australia team forming a lively atmosphere - something Epakis believes is vital for his side to recover from the defeat.
“It is already special for the players to be selected to represent the nation, and the fact that the families have made the commitment and the sacrifice to come here is really beautiful,” he said.
“Of course, in victory, it was good for the players to enjoy the company of their families, but in defeat, their presence will play an even greater role.”
“It is already special for the players to be selected to represent the nation, and the fact that the families have made the commitment and the sacrifice to come here is really beautiful,” he said.
“Of course, in victory, it was good for the players to enjoy the company of their families, but in defeat, their presence will play an even greater role.”
#U20WAC - Quarter-Finals Preview
Australia’s attacking ability was also highlighted by DPR Korea head coach Han Chol Hak, whose charges were the only side to enter the knockout stage without conceding any goals.
“Australia are a swift side and good at counterattacking, and these are the points I will study to contain,” said Han. “Because of the heat, we will also have to think about their physical ability."
“Australia are a swift side and good at counterattacking, and these are the points I will study to contain,” said Han. “Because of the heat, we will also have to think about their physical ability."
“But from what we have learned from the group stage is that our players have to be strong physically. Of course, there are other factors such as tactics and techniques, and I will do my best to ensure my team’s victory.”
DPR Korea v Australia
Venue: Pathum Thani (Pathum Thani)
Kick-off: Sunday, 16:00 (UTC+7)
Venue: Pathum Thani (Pathum Thani)
Kick-off: Sunday, 16:00 (UTC+7)
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