Defending champ Japan has depth at Women's World Cup
Japan may have won the last World Cup, but this team wants to be seen as an underdog. The same things that helped them break through in 2011 — short passes and being technically sound — is what will be their backbone this summer. Japan also prides itself on being one of the deepest teams in the tournament, especially in attacking roles.
Key Players
Aya Miyama: Many Japanese soccer fans believe Miyama is the next Homare Sawa (who can be likened to Mia Hamm). Miyama, 30, is the leader of this team, wears the captain's armband and has played significant roles in Japan's success in earning a silver medal in the 2012 Olympics and winning the AFC Women's Asian Cup last year. The midfielder might only be 5-foot-1, but she can take on any physical player, has incredible speed and is dangerous on set pieces.
Yuki Ogimi,Ogimi, 27, will be a critical piece for Japan. The striker played on the 2011 World Cup and '12 Olympics squads, and is a ruthless goal scorer and attacker. She plays for VfL Wolfsburg of the Bundesliga, and was the league's top goal scorer in 2013.
About the team
Coach : Norio Sasaki
Sasaki has coached the national team since 2008 and is one of the top coaches in the women's game. A former player for the men's team, the latter part of his coaching career has been his best with Japan winning the World Cup in 2011 and getting a silver medal in the '12 Olympics.
How they qualified: Won the Women's Asian Cup
Number of appearances: 7
Best result: Won the 2011 World Cup
FIFA world ranking: No. 4
Fast fact: 36-year-old Homare Sawa, who is known for her extra-time game-tying goal against the United States in the 2011 World Cup final, is on the roster but has been left off before the tournament.
Schedule (ET)
June 8; 9 p.m. Switzerland, Vancouver
June 12; 9 p.m.; Cameroon, Vancouver
June 16; 3 p.m.; Ecuador, Winnipeg