Women's Olympic Games
Despite going ahead through Aoba Fujino’s spectacular free-kick, Japan were pegged back by Aitana Bonmati’s strike before Mariona Caldentey found the winner for reigning world champions Spain.
Explaining his tactics, Ikeda admitted caution was a big part of the strategy but now wants a complete shift of focus as they look to get points on the board in the remaining two matches.
“The one thing I wanted to avoid was the team falling apart, chasing blindly, getting increasingly peeled off, and conceding more and more goals,” said Ikeda after the game.
“Spain being Spain, the speed at which they do their switching, moving the ball and spreading play was top class.
“Now it’s about recovery and getting in shape. The focus is immediately on the Brazil game and we will prepare for it while putting this game behind us.”
Sunday’s opponents Brazil secured a 1-0 win over Nigeria in the later game on Thursday thanks to a first half effort from Gabi Nunes.
Japan must defeat the South American side if they are to finish in the top two positions, which will mean automatic qualification to the knockout stage.
