Can Japan’s Coach Nielsen Lead Nadeshiko to Victory in Group C of the AFC Women’s Asia Cup?

Sydney, Aug 2 (NationPress) Japan's head coach Nils Nielsen aims to enhance his Nadeshiko team's ability to achieve positive outcomes at major tournaments as the former champions strive to reclaim the AFC Women’s Asian Cup title in Australia next year.

Nielsen's squad has been drawn to compete against Vietnam, India, and Chinese Taipei in Group C of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026, revealed during the Official Draw in Sydney on Tuesday, marking their quest to win the title for the first time since 2018.

"It was a favorable draw, and the crucial aspect is that we ended up in Group C, as it offers logistical advantages compared to Group B. We need to demonstrate why we are the highest-ranked team. I don't intend to show any disrespect, but I believe we have a solid chance of winning the group, which would position us against one of the third-place teams in the quarterfinals, and then we take it from there," expressed the Dane, who succeeded Futoshi Ikeda last year.

The Japanese team will compete in all three of their group matches in Perth, beginning with a clash against Chinese Taipei on March 4, aiming for the top spot in the standings to secure a meeting with one of the third-placed finishers in the quarterfinals, according to the AFC.

A victory would pave the way for Japan's qualification for the 10th consecutive FIFA Women’s World Cup, ensuring one of the six guaranteed spots at the finals in Brazil and keeping the nation on track to reclaim the world title for the first time since 2011.

"Naturally, this is a World Cup qualifier, so the Women’s Asian Cup holds immense significance. However, as a team, we need to return to winning ways—not just in individual matches but also in tournaments. Each tournament has its own dynamics, and it's vital to grasp that and prepare accordingly. We haven't delved into those details yet, as we have only played friendly matches thus far.

"Fortunately, we have ample time to prepare, with several more high-quality matches on the horizon. I’m particularly pleased with the efforts of the administrators, who have provided us with excellent preparation," said Nielsen.

The AFC Women’s Asian Cup Australia 2026 will be Nielsen's first major tournament leading the Nadeshiko after taking over post the 2024 Olympic Games, where Japan was eliminated in the quarter-finals by the eventual gold medalists, the United States.

Currently ranked seventh in the FIFA Rankings, Nielsen expressed satisfaction with the progress of his squad since his arrival in December. However, he emphasizes that the time for assessments and adjustments is coming to a close.

"We have faced strong teams, which is invaluable in preparing for major tournaments, as we’ve encountered formidable opposition in all our matches," he noted regarding his team's schedule thus far.