Tue, 30 Nov, -0001
Kuala Lumpur: Aya Miyama has scooped the AFC Women's Player of the Year for the second successive year after the 27-year old's influential performances helped the Nadeshiko claim silver medal in the 2012 London Olympics.
Miyama led by example as Japan ousted powerhouse Brazil in the quarter-finals and then defeated France 3-1 to set up a gold medal showdown with the USA, but they were unable to repeat the impressive displays in the previous two matches and had to settle for silver.
"I believe that this prize would not have been possible without the supports of my teammates. We played like a true team in London," Miyama said after collecting her second AFC Women's Player of the Year Award from Moya Dodd, AFC Vice President and Chairperson of the AFC Women's Committee.
"This togetherness in the team is the sign of success. I dedicate this award to all my team members with whom I played this year.
"I also want to request that women football fans and especially the Japanese women football supporters to continue your support for the Nadeshiko.
"And also please cheer for Asian women whenever and wherever they play."