Michihisa Kano was appointed permanent head coach of the Japan women's national football team on May 15, 2026, after acting as caretaker following Nils Nielsen's departure earlier this year [1, 2, 3]. Nielsen stepped down less than two weeks after leading Japan to the Women's Asian Cup title in March 2026, when Japan beat Australia 1-0 in the final [1, 2, 3]. Japan also secured qualification for the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil by reaching the Asian Cup semi-finals [1, 2].
During April 2026, Kano led the team on a three-match friendly tour in the United States, where Japan achieved one win and two losses [1, 2, 3]. Prior to his caretaker role, Kano led Japan to a gold medal at the 2023 Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China [3]. He is 49 years old [3].
Nielsen faced criticism from Japan Football Association officials for lacking passion and a lax coaching style. Norio Sasaki, an association official, said, "His coaching was a little too lax, a little too soft. A more rigorous approach and rigorous training is necessary" [3]. After Nielsen's contract was not renewed, former assistant coach Leah Blayney also left the team [3].
Kano pledged a new direction for the team, stating, "We will do our utmost to showcase a 'Nadeshiko' Japan team that plays with aggression, toughness and vigour in both attack and defense" [1].
Kano's permanent appointment formalizes the leadership as Japan prepares for upcoming international competitions, including the 2027 Women's World Cup in Brazil [1, 2].
