Nielsen Steps Down as Japan Coach After Asian Cup Win

The 54-year-old Greenlander, who had been in charge since December 2024, led Japan to a 1-0 victory over hosts Australia in the final on March 21. Japan's remarkable tournament performance saw them score 29 goals while conceding just one throughout the competition.

"Japan women's manager Nils Nielsen is stepping down following the expiry of his contract," the Japanese Football Association stated in a release. Nielsen previously coached Denmark and Switzerland's women's teams and served as technical director at Manchester City's women's side, describing his Japan squad as "inspirational" during their Asian Cup campaign.