Japanese player vows not to ease off against Vietnam team

From a promising young talent to one of the most reliable defenders at the 2026 Asian Cup, Hana Takahashi has demonstrated her career's robust growth, becoming a model of leadership and stability.

This 26-year-old player has become a crucial link in the Japanese national team, guiding both her club and the national squad with calmness and sharp tactical thinking.

Takahashi first wore the Japanese national team jersey at the U14 level in 2013, and her journey has been marked by steady progress each year. She won numerous domestic titles with Urawa Red Diamonds Ladies, including the Nadeshiko League championship in 2020, the Empress's Cup in 2021, and the double of the WE League and WE League Cup in the 2022–23 season.

On the international stage, Takahashi played a key role in Japan's journey at the FIFA U‑20 Women’s World Cup 2018, contributing to the team's victory in the EAFF E‑1 Football Championship 2022 and lifting the SheBelieves Cup in 2025.

After being honored as the Women's Player of the Year in 2025, the midfielder of Urawa Reds Ladies, who is participating in her second Asian Cup, stated she is ready to continue Japan's momentum in the final Group C match against the Vietnam team.

"Everyone in the team is prepared to contribute when given the opportunity. We have performed well in the past two matches and demonstrated excellent teamwork. In the final group stage match, we want to continue being united, secure a victory, and gain momentum to advance to the next round.

For the team to win, defenders need to constantly communicate with each other and maintain a high level of focus. That will be crucial, and we aim to continue doing that consistently."

Takahashi started in Japan's opening match against Chinese Taipei. Despite facing many difficulties for most of the game, her tactical vision in the second half helped break the stalemate at the 61st minute, with a precise pass enabling Momoko Tanikawa to score.

"In the first match, we encountered quite a few challenges before scoring. Playing in Asia always presents many obstacles, and we need to continue preparing for those.

The most important thing is to fully concentrate on each match and secure the immediate victory. That is our top priority."

View news for the 2026 Women's Championship

View Schedule for the 2026 Women's Championship

View Rankings for the 2026 Women's Championship

View Results for the 2026 Women's Championship