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Commerce City Today
By the People, for the People
Japan Women's National Team Coach Nils Nielsen Resigns After Asian Cup Win
Michihisa Kano to lead team for upcoming U.S. friendlies
Apr. 2, 2026 at 9:54am
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Japan's women's national team head coach Nils Nielsen has resigned just 12 days after leading the team to victory in the 2026 Women's Asian Cup. The Japan Football Association (JFA) announced Nielsen's departure upon the expiration of his contract, with Michihisa Kano named as the interim head coach for the team's upcoming friendlies against the U.S. women's national team in April.
Why it matters
Nielsen's resignation comes as a surprise after he guided Japan to the Asian Cup title, their first major tournament win since 2011. His departure raises questions about the team's leadership and direction heading into important matches against the powerful USWNT.
The details
Nils Nielsen was appointed Japan's head coach in December 2024 and led the team to the 2025 SheBelieves Cup title before their Asian Cup triumph in March 2026. The 54-year-old Dane was the first foreign head coach of the Japan women's national team. Michihisa Kano, who previously served as head coach of Japan's under-20 side, will now take charge of the team for their three-game April series against the USWNT.
- Nielsen resigned on April 2, 2026, just 12 days after Japan won the 2026 Women's Asian Cup on March 21.
- Kano will lead Japan in their upcoming friendlies against the USWNT on April 11, April 14, and April 17.
The players
Nils Nielsen
The former head coach of the Japan women's national team, who led the team to the 2026 Women's Asian Cup title before resigning upon the expiration of his contract.
Michihisa Kano
The interim head coach of the Japan women's national team, who previously served as head coach of Japan's under-20 side.
Japan Football Association (JFA)
The governing body of football in Japan, which announced the departure of Nils Nielsen and the appointment of Michihisa Kano as interim head coach.
What they’re saying
“We must thank Nils Nielsen for his hard work and dedication in leading our team to the Asian Cup title. We wish him the best in his future endeavors.”
— Taro Aso, President, Japan Football Association
What’s next
The JFA will conduct a search for a permanent replacement for Nils Nielsen, with the goal of having a new head coach in place before the team's next major tournament, the 2027 FIFA Women's World Cup.
The takeaway
The sudden departure of Nils Nielsen, just weeks after leading Japan to the Asian Cup title, highlights the volatility and high expectations surrounding the women's national team program. The JFA will need to move quickly to find a new long-term leader who can build on the team's recent success and prepare them for the 2027 World Cup.
