“We need to execute Japanese hockey clinically” — coach Anai before must-win Hockey Asia Cup match vs China

Following a narrow loss to tournament favourite India, Japan coach Yoshihiro Anai knows his team must execute the fundamentals of Japanese hockey to perfection in its do-or-die Pool A clash against a well-drilled Chinese side on Monday if it is to qualify for the Super 4s of the Asia Cup 2025.

“We need to execute our kind of Japanese hockey; defend well, then counterattack very quickly. It is, which is our strong point; we need to execute it clinically,” Anai told Sportstar with the help of a translator.

Ruthless edge

The threat from China is undeniable. Anai recognises the formidable attacking force it has become. Both teams lost narrowly to India, but China’s dominant 13-1 victory over Kazakhstan showcased its ruthless mentality.

Still, Anai found positives in his team’s performance against the “No. 1 team in Asia.”

“Our structure was good. Both attacking and defending. We executed our plan well, which is a good thing, and ultimately the final score was very close.”

Japan’s Achilles heel

One glaring weakness, however, hangs over Japan: penalty corners. Against India, Japan squandered nine opportunities, while China clinically converted all three of its chances. Anai admitted the issue cannot be ignored.

“It is a concern before a crucial match. We should have converted some of those. We also need to tighten our PC defence,” he said.

Winner takes all

China’s rise has been steady in recent years. A silver medal at the 2024 Asian Champions Trophy underlined its progress, while the presence of Dutch masters Michel van den Heuvel and Roelant Oltmans in the coaching staff has further sharpened its edge.

Now, with a place in the Super 4s at stake, the pressure could not be higher. Ranked fifth and sixth in Asia, Japan and China are locked in a survival battle. For Japan, only a win will do — China’s superior goal difference means a draw would not be enough.

Yet Anai remains confident, his focus unwavering. “We have analysed China and have planned accordingly. If we can execute them properly, we will qualify for the Super 4s,” he signed off.

Published on Sep 01, 2025