AFC Women's Asian Cup
Nagano was the key link between the lines, orchestrating Japan’s attack with pinpoint passes all across the Perth Rectangular Stadium – leaving Riko Ueki, Maika Hamano, Aoba Fujino and Kiko Sieke to complete the job.
The 27-year-old Liverpool midfielder had a pass completion rate of over 90 percent - with more than 90 percent accuracy in Vietnam’s half, showcasing her ability to control play and initiate opportunities.
The 27-year-old Liverpool midfielder had a pass completion rate of over 90 percent - with more than 90 percent accuracy in Vietnam’s half, showcasing her ability to control play and initiate opportunities.
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“I thought it would be a really difficult match but I’m very happy that we managed to score in the first half and secure the win,” said Nagano.
“At the same time, I realised that there are still many areas we need to improve - both individually and as a team. For the next match, I want us to work on those areas and get better.”
Nagano’s influence was evident in the first two goals and build-up play. She credited Fujino’s movement for opening up space in the final third.
“At the same time, I realised that there are still many areas we need to improve - both individually and as a team. For the next match, I want us to work on those areas and get better.”
Nagano’s influence was evident in the first two goals and build-up play. She credited Fujino’s movement for opening up space in the final third.
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“I really liked Aoba’s movement, so I was just focused on following her runs. For the second goal, our centre-backs are really strong in the air and come around well, so from my position I always try to be ready to pick up the second ball.
“However, Vietnam showed a lot of forward momentum today and there were moments we should have reacted quicker – something we’ll work on for the next game.”
Japan will now turn their attention to the Philippines with the sides to meet in the quarter-finals on Sunday and Japan can count on their No.10 to deliver another sterling performance.
“However, Vietnam showed a lot of forward momentum today and there were moments we should have reacted quicker – something we’ll work on for the next game.”
Japan will now turn their attention to the Philippines with the sides to meet in the quarter-finals on Sunday and Japan can count on their No.10 to deliver another sterling performance.
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