Portugal’s women’s futsal team prepares for its most challenging group stage match against Japan on Wednesday, a game its coach believes could secure an early spot in the quarterfinals of the inaugural World Cup.
Coach Luís Conceição stated that Japan is the toughest opponent in Group C and that this second fixture is decisive for qualification.
“We knew that, within the group, Japan would be the most difficult opponent and that the second game would be decisive, which can stamp our passage,” Conceição told Canal 11. He added that while it secures passage, it might not directly guarantee group leadership.
Goalkeeper Ana Catarina Pereira echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the greater challenges Japan presents.
“Obviously, it will be the most difficult game, but, more than that, we have to face it as something that will give us access to the World Cup quarterfinals,” Pereira said.
The match is scheduled for Wednesday afternoon in the host city, Manila.
Both Portugal and Japan enter the game with three points. Portugal achieved a commanding 10-0 victory over Tanzania in its opening match. Japan also started strongly, beating New Zealand 6-0.
Conceição noted Japan’s tactical prowess. “As for Japan, among the teams we have followed in recent years of women’s futsal, they are among the best,” he said. He specifically highlighted their strong variability in offensive tactical schemes.
The Portuguese squad, a finalist in the European Championships in 2019 and 2022 and a semifinalist in 2023, is grouped with Tanzania, Japan, and New Zealand. They will conclude their group stage matches against New Zealand on Sunday.
The first edition of the Women’s Futsal World Cup is taking place at the PhilSports Arena in the Manila metropolitan area. The tournament runs from November 21 to December 7.
Sixteen national teams are competing, with two spots in the quarterfinals available from each of the four groups. Argentina has already secured its place in the next phase from Group A following its second matchday on Monday.