AFC Asian Cup: India need tactical discipline in big Japan test

Once the heartbreak had subsided a bit in the dressing room after the 2-1 loss against Vietnam, there was realisation that India’s performance in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup group opener was more than creditable, deserving of at least a point. If proof was needed, it came from experienced Vietnam coach Mai Duc Chung who admitted that the game was “very evenly matched.”
India coach Amelia Valverde was understandably disappointed with the lack of discipline in defence but there’s little time to reflect on those lapses as the team prepares for a tough challenge against former world champions Japan at the Perth Rectangular Stadium on Saturday.
Japan are the heavyweights at the Asian Cup and have remained undefeated in their last 17 group stage games at the continental level. Though their opener only resulted in a 2-0 win against Chinese Taipei, the former champions made 87 entries into their opponents’ penalty area, the most by any team in a game at the tournament since Australia made 89 against Thailand in their 2018 semi-final.
“Japan are a completely different side from Vietnam, so we will adapt as best we can,” said Valverde. “Our first focus is recovery because the players are physically drained. We know Japan like to dominate possession and play dynamically. We need to prepare our own game and aim to put on a strong performance, remaining competitive like we were against Vietnam. At certain moments, the game may demand that we be flexible from a tactical point of view.”
Valverde’s first official assignment with the national team would have opened her eyes to the harsh realities of Indian football. While the team seemed out of place in the opening half with some seniors struggling, changes in the second half not just fetched an equaliser but also a way back into the game.
“The team is feeling very good. We had the advantage of taking two days to recover and to prepare for this big game,” said Valverde, who is expected to make changes to the side that started against Vietnam.
There’s a reason why Japan are counted among the favourites for the crown in Australia. They have won the tournament twice and, barring two, made it to the semifinals in all editions they have taken part. The former world champions have 16 players based in England.
“I’m confident we can create chances against India,” said head coach Nils Nielsen. “They are a strong team with great spirit, and although they were unlucky in their last game, we believe we can put them under pressure. To score, we must really commit and fight for every ball.”