Tue, 30 Nov, -0001
Ho Chi Minh City: Japan coach Norio Sasaki called on his players to get off to a fast start in their second AFC Women’s Asian Cup tie against hosts Vietnam, when the FIFA Women’s World Cup holders face the Southeast Asian side in the Group A clash on Friday at Nhong That Stadium.
Sasaki saw his side make an uncharacteristically sluggish start to their tournament opener against defending champions Australia on Wednesday, which saw Lisa De Vanna hit the post after just three minutes, and the Nadeshiko saw themselves go two goals down by the hour-mark.
And although an own goal from the Matildas captain Clare Polkinghorne and a header six minutes from time from substitute Yuki Ogimi did ultimately earn Japan a point, Sasaki says there is room for improvement against Vietnam, who are on a high after their 3-1 victory over Jordan in Wednesday’s earlier game in Group A .
“We did prepare a lot for the game against Australia but we were still unable to control the game for long periods. As well as conceding two goals there was also a shot from De Vanna that went close, so there are still some things for us to work on,” said coach Sasaki (pictured).
“Not only are Vietnam the host country but they have a great motivation to try and finish at least fifth in the tournament and thereby get a place in next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup. And I can really feel their momentum and motivation, from their players to their fans.
“We are going to play the same way in the game, though, and we will have a good focus and look to have a much better start to the game.”
Vietnam’s coach Chen Yu Fa, meanwhile, is excited about the prospect of taking on Japan but realistic about his side’s chances against the top-ranked team in Asia.
“Playing against Japan is a great honour for Vietnam, this is a great opportunity for my players to try and learn from the game. We must approach this game with seriousness and a learning attitude, and that’s what I’ll be looking for from my players,” said coach Chen.
“Even though we will have to face first Japan and then Australia, two very strong teams, I am confident after the win over Jordan that we can at least secure the fifth spot in the competition.”