Tue, 30 Nov, -0001
Ho Chi Minh City: Japan captain Aya Miyama celebrated a double triumph on Sunday night as not only did she lead her team to a first-ever AFC Women’s Asian Cup title, defeating defending champions Australia by a goal to nil, but she also was awarded the tournament’s MVP award for her efforts.
The two-time AFC Women’s Player of the Year was the heart of her team’s creative play throughout the continental competition with her eye-catching passes and calmness on the ball from the centre of midfield proving to be a consistent and reliable anchor for the Nadeshiko attack.
“Although on a personal level I am pleased to be given this award, we had a lot of new players integrated into the team at this tournament and all the players were valuable in winning the title – not just one person, so the victory we got today is an even greater reward than being named the MVP,” said the 29-year-old icon.
Miyama had particularly crucial contributions to Japan’s continental campaign in the 2-1 victory over archrival China in the semi-final as her accurate delivery from set-pieces resulted in both goals, while her cleverly-worked corner routine with Rumi Utsugi also resulted in Azusa Iwashimizu successfully converting the game’s only goal in the final.
“I’ve been the designated dead-ball taker for the Nadeshiko for a long time so I do spend a lot of time working on them in training and thinking about ideas of set-plays aside from the regular training with the team,” she added.
And her national team coach Norio Sasaki was in no doubt about the importance of the captain to his side, nor to her contribution to Japan’s maiden AFC Women’s Asian Cup title.
“Her performance has really developed in the last few years. Her stamina, agility and work-rate have all increased and this was very much on display at this tournament which has been played in hot and humid conditions,” said Japan coach Sasaki, who added that it was not just her efforts on the field that were an asset to his side.
“She leads by example when she plays, but also what people don’t always see or appreciate is all the work she puts in away from the pitch to ensure the team is as united as possible.
“That is something that has greatly impressed me. I really respect her work on and off the pitch.”