Iwabuchi confident of Japan, Australia’s chances

Thu, 18 Jul, 2024

Iwabuchi confident of Japan, Australia’s chances

Kuala Lumpur: Mana Iwabuchi believes that both Japan and Australia have the pedigree to finish on the podium at the Paris Olympics, provided they play their cards right.

Having played a part in helping Japan win the silver medal at London 2012, Iwabuchi knows a thing or two on what’s required to win a medal in the global showpiece.

The former Bayern Munich and Arsenal player feels Japan’s familiarity could be a crucial factor as 15 of the 18 players brought to Paris were also part of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023.

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Women’s Football - Players to Watch

Fri, 19 Jul, 2024

Women’s Football - Players to Watch

Kuala Lumpur: As the 2024 Paris Olympics approaches, anticipation is building for the thrilling displays of talent and skill that will unfold on the grand stage. 

Among the athletes set to compete, several players from Australia and Japan are expected to be in the Women's Football Tournament spotlight. 

The-AFC.com takes a look at the key players to watch from these two nations.

Ikeda optimistic of Japan’s chances

Sat, 20 Jul, 2024

Ikeda optimistic of Japan’s chances

Paris: Futoshi Ikeda believes Japan can claim their first medal in the women’s competition at the Olympic Games since 20212 by sticking to their own style of football despite being handed a daunting challenge in the group phase of this summer’s tournament.

The Nadeshiko have been drawn to face reigning FIFA Women’s World Cup holders Spain as well as current South American champions Brazil and 11-times African title winners Nigeria at the Paris Games, but Ikeda is refusing to be pessimistic.

Australia's Gustavsson bullish despite Kerr's absence

Mon, 22 Jul, 2024

Australia's Gustavsson bullish despite Kerr's absence

Kuala Lumpur: Tony Gustavsson says Australia could compensate for the loss of talismanic captain Sam Kerr at the Olympic Games with greater tactical flexibility as his squad look to overcome the loss of the AFC Women’s Player of the Year to win the country’s first-ever football medal.

The Matildas are seeking a podium spot at the Paris Games after a fourth-place finish in Tokyo in 2021 but will go into the campaign without Kerr after the Chelsea striker injured her anterior cruciate ligament in January.

Gustavsson, however, is encouraged by his side’s performance at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand last year, when his team also reached the semi-finals despite missing Kerr for much of the tournament due to a calf injury.

Men’s Football - Players to Watch

Mon, 15 Jul, 2024

Men’s Football - Players to Watch

Kuala Lumpur: The Paris Olympics Men’s Football Tournament is set to be a spectacle with three Asian teams striving for glory.

Japan, Uzbekistan and Iraq are all determined to produce a medal finish and the-AFC.com takes a look at the players who will be pivotal to their chances.

India appoints Marquez as new head coach

Mon, 22 Jul, 2024

India appoints Marquez as new head coach

New Delhi: The All India Football Federation has decided on the replacement for Igor Stimac with Manolo Marquez being entrusted with the responsibility of the men’s national team head coach duties.

Marquez is currently the head coach of FC Goa and will be taking on both roles until the end of the 2024/25 season before focusing fully on the national team.

Aubameyang joins Al Qadsiah

Fri, 19 Jul, 2024

Aubameyang joins Al Qadsiah

Khobar: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has started the next chapter of his career in Asia following his move to Saudi Pro League outfit, Al Qadsiah.

The Gabon international was signed from French Ligue 1 side Marseille after a prolific 2023/24 campaign which saw him score 30 goals.