Saki Kumagai: A Bridge Between Eras in Japanese Football
In the wake of Japan's recent Asian Cup victory in Australia, veteran defender Saki Kumagai reflects on her storied 17-year career and her pivotal role in mentoring the next generation of players. Now 35 and playing for London City Lionesses in the Women's Super League (WSL), Kumagai is the sole remaining link to Japan's 2011 Women's World Cup triumph, where she scored the winning penalty against the USA.
From World Cup Glory to a New Team Dynamic
Kumagai laughs off questions about ranking her titles, emphasizing the significance of winning with a new generation. "I never compare my titles," she says. "This team is from a different generation, so winning a trophy in this tournament was really impressive for me. We couldn't win four years ago. This national team is a new team, and I hope this makes us more confident and comfortable to play." She highlights the importance of team harmony and leadership, especially in noisy stadiums where communication is challenging.
The 50-Year Vision and Youth Acceleration
In 2005, the Japanese Football Federation unveiled a ambitious 50-year plan aimed at increasing participation, improving world rankings, and hosting and winning a World Cup. While progress in men's football has been gradual, the women's game has surged forward. Halfway through this plan, Japan ranks fifth in the FIFA women's rankings, boasting achievements like an Olympic silver medal, a second World Cup final appearance in 2015, three Asian Cup trophies (2014, 2018, 2026), and the launch of Asia's first full-time professional women's league in 2021.
Kumagai notes the rapid rise of young stars such as Maika Hamano, Toko Koga, Riko Ueki, and Ayaka Yamashita, who were children during her 2011 World Cup win. "We have a lot of good young players with potential and confidence," she says. "Many are playing in Europe or overseas, getting playing time and performing well. As an experienced player, I try to create a good environment for the next generation."
Passing the Baton to Future Champions
With stints at top clubs like OL Lyonnais, Bayern Munich, and Roma, Kumagai has become Asia's most decorated female footballer. As her career winds down, she focuses on sharing her experiences and lessons. "I want to build team harmony and share messages or attitudes with young players coming into the team," she explains. "I feel like that is my role: I try to pass the baton to the next generation to show them how to perform in these moments." Her dedication underscores Japan's ongoing journey to reclaim the summit of women's football, driven by a blend of veteran wisdom and youthful energy.
