Post No. 993 - The Ladies of Japan Fall

Nothing against Sweden, but I was hoping Japan would win and move on to the semi-final of the Women’s World Cup. As I wrote in a post recently, I admire the way Japan set-up and play, and use movement and passing to compensate for a lack of size and physicality. At their best, Japan is quick and smooth, with a squad of steady, technically capable players. But it was clear early on that Sweden was making it difficult for Japan to get its passing game going. Those long-legged Swedish ladies clogged the spaces and pressed the Japanese into uncharacteristic errors. 

When Sweden had possession they were intent on putting balls in the box for their height-advantaged teammates to attack. In the early going Sweden made the better chances and looked more threatening. Using its size and bulk advantage, Sweden controlled the midfield, which was very disruptive for Japan, whose players were finding it hard to link up. It was obvious that Japan was struggling, and I wasn’t surprised when they conceded in the 32nd minute. 

Now it was a test of character and will for the Japanese ladies. I was curious to see their reaction. Even though they came up short, I think Japan passed the character test because they didn’t hang their heads or quit. They fought their way back into the match. When all was said and done, they had 50% of possession, eleven shots with three on target, including two shots that banged off the post. They scored a goal in the 87th minute. Not an ounce of quit in the squad. 

Japan also had some good fortune when their goalkeeper, Yamashita, deflected two of Sweden’s shots off the post. If either of those balls had found the back of the net, Japan would have been toast. Japan had good and bad luck in equal measure. 

Japan played with more precision when they were forced to chase the game, and space opened up for their passing game as the Swedes tired. Japan pressed hard for an equalizer, but Sweden was able to hang on for the win. The match was competitive, played at high tempo, with several dramatic moments. It’s a shame that one side had to lose, but the Japanese players and the coaching staff have nothing to be ashamed of. 

England versus Colombia should be intriguing. Stay tuned.