Japan's Unbeaten Streak Continues: Can They Conquer Asia?

Nielsen's Japan eyes Asian Cup glory

Japan's dominant Japan Women's team looks to book their spot in the Women's Asian Cup final against South Korea.

Coach Nils Nielsen warns Japan's defence to stay alert against South Korea in Asian Cup semi-finals...

Japan's coach, Nils Nielsen, is warning his team against complacency ahead of their Women's Asian Cup semi-final against South Korea, stating that their defence has yet to be properly tested. Japan has been on a rampage in Australia, scoring 24 goals in their four matches so far, with wins over the Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, and India.

Nielsen's concerns come despite Japan's impressive attacking display, which has seen them score 24 goals in four games. However, the coach is keenly aware that South Korea will pose a different challenge, and Japan's defence will be put to the test. The two-time champions are looking to book their spot in the final, but Nielsen is keeping his team focused.

“These players have had to work very hard to earn a place in this team and we are capable. We are still not where we would like to be but we are getting there.

“I am happy for South Korea's qualification to the semi-finals and we are confident that we will be ready for the challenge,” he added.

Japan's coach, Nils Nielsen, isn't worried that his team's defence has seen minimal action so far, with Manchester City goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita hardly being tested. “It doesn't concern me that our defence hasn't been tested much,” Nielsen said after Japan's 7-0 win over the Philippines.

Japan has been dominant, scoring 24 goals and conceding none, but South Korea will likely change that on Wednesday. The South Koreans have scored 16 and conceded three, making them a tougher opponent. Nielsen's team will need to be on high alert.

I absolutely love the way Nils Nielsen spoke about not wanting to discuss the World Cup, and the level of respect he has for the tournament they're currently in. If only some other European managers and fans had that level of respect. https://t.co/2dlmKkX0FF

— Poletti (they/them) (@ItsPoletti) March 16, 2026

Japan's dominance was on full display against the Philippines, where they mustered 50 shots, 17 on target, in a 7-0 win. This performance secured their spot in the 2023 World Cup in Brazil, with the top six finishers at the Asian Cup qualifying for the tournament.

Nielsen is keeping his feet on the ground, saying it's too early to talk about winning the World Cup again. Japan's last triumph was in 2011, and the coach is focused on taking it one game at a time, starting with Wednesday's semi-final against South Korea.