Japan women's team coach Nils Nielsen highly praises Vietnam women's team ahead of Asian Cup group stage match.
On March 9th noon, at the press conference before the match between Vietnam women's team and Japan women's team in the 2026 Asian Cup group stage, coach Mai Duc Chung and midfielder Nguyen Thi Bich Thuy shared about the team's preparation for the important match on March 10th. The veteran coach said the whole team is focusing fully to deliver the best performance against a superior opponent.
After two matches, Japan women's team is demonstrating strength by securing two wins and almost certainly taking the top spot in the group. Meanwhile, Vietnam women's team currently ranks third and still has opportunities to compete for a spot to advance, especially the ticket for the best-performing third-place teams.
Speaking before the match, Japan women's team head coach Nils Nielsen expressed respect for the opponent. He assessed Vietnam women's team as a fast-paced team and very dangerous in quick counter-attacking situations, so his players must prepare thoroughly to adapt to the high tempo.
The Danish strategist also rated Vietnam women's team as having many quality players who can challenge any opponent. According to him, the upcoming match will present a different challenge compared to Japan's previous two matches, and also an opportunity for his team to experience more diverse playing styles.
Even though they have already secured a spot in the quarter-finals early, Japan women's team still aims to maintain their winning streak. Coach Nils Nielsen said his team wants to continue refining their gameplay, improving small details to prepare best before entering the knockout stage.
Regarding Vietnam women's team, Coach Mai Duc Chung affirmed that Japan is one of the strongest teams in Asia as well as the world. According to him, in this group, Japan is rated the highest, while the remaining three teams including Vietnam, India, and Chinese Taipei are fiercely competing for the next spot to advance.