On 10 August, the U-20 Japan Women’s National Team had their second day of the training camp in Germany.

Under the occasionally strong sun light, the team’s Assistant Coach OBE Yumi guided the training which started with agility sessions including steps and sprints. They then had 3-on- 3+ 2 servers and 6-on-6 including goalkeepers to focus more on defence in the morning.

The weather changed drastically in the afternoon. Under thick clouds, the team had other sessions of pass & control, and shooting from crosses exercises. At the end of the day, they had an intra-squad game for the up-coming match against the U-20 Germany National Team which will take place on 12 August. The intra-squad game kicked off in heavy rain, however it became lighter and a rainbow appeared in the middle of the match.

Players' Comments

GK #12  MATSUMOTO Mamiko (Urawa Red Diamonds Ladies)
Today we had goalkeeping exercises focusing on crosses. Since we changed positioning during the session, I had to play in a more difficult situation. Even in this challenge, I think I could be more aggressive to near balls. However, I couldn’t respond to far balls well. In the other session with field players, I couldn’t respond well to the attacks from crosses. One of the reasons is my initial positioning; I tend to go too far forwards towards the ball so I will correct this issue with more attention. When the level goes up, positioning should be even more important than before, so I will be more careful about this in the training.

MF #11  NISHIDA Meika (CEREZO OSAKA SAKAI LADIES)
In this morning we have the sessions focusing on defence. I have many issues in defence so I will try to improve as much as possible. On the day after tomorrow, we will play against Germany who are one of the favourites to win the FIFA Women’s World Cup, so we will prepare both as a player and as a team well to show good performances in the match.

FW #20  UENO Mami (EhimeFCLadies)
We had defence training mostly in the morning, and in the afternoon we had more game type sessions. Especially I paid attention to individual strength today. For both offence and defence, each play will be important. We want to improve our accuracy and quality in offence and defence and to get ready well. As a player I want to see how much I can do and show my strength throughout this camp.

Schedule

*The schedule is subject to change due to the team condition, the weather, etc.
*Local Time