Japan's undefeated run at the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 proves Project Blue Lock is real

The Japanese Women's National Football team is turning heads at the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 having given Spain a taste of their own "synchronised madness" medicine, thrashing them 4-0 and securing top spot in Group C. No wonder the Internet is buzzing, nicknaming their success 'Project Blue Lock'.

What 

The Japanese Women's National Football team has truly impressed at the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023, showcasing their potential as serious contenders in the tournament.

• Their remarkable performance against Spain, coupled with a lossless run in the group stage, has caught the attention of fans worldwide, and they have been affectionately dubbed "Project Blue Lock" on the Internet.
• Drawing parallels with the Eight Bit’s anime series, Blue Lock, the Japanese Women's National Football team displayed a similar determination to develop and nurture world-class talent.
• The team's ability to overcome challenges and demonstrate synchronised brilliance on the field echoes the essence of the anime series.

A statement

Leading up to the crucial match against Spain, Japan's place in the knockout round was already secured, and a draw would have been sufficient to finish second in Group C. This would have potentially led to an easier last-16 tie against Switzerland. 

However, the ‘Nadeshiko’ were not content with merely progressing to the next stage; they were determined to make a statement.

In the encounter at Wellington Regional Stadium, Japan showcased an electric start, stunning Spain with three goals in just 40 minutes.

Hinata Miyazawa was on fire, scoring twice, while Riko Ueki added another goal on a lightning-fast counterattack. The team's skillful execution of counter attacking football left Spain's high press tactics ineffective.

Coach Futoshi Ikeda's tactical moves were like a well-choreographed dance on the field. They smoothly shifted from their usual adventurous formation to a more stable 5-4-1 setup, catching Spain completely off guard. This change allowed the wing backs to drop deeper, creating two flat barriers with the attacking midfielders moving wider to repel Spain's advances effectively.

As they now progress to face Norway in the last 16, Japan's fans are hopeful that their tactical flexibility and depth will continue to serve them well in the tournament. The victory against Spain has instilled confidence, and they are now seen as a formidable hurdle for any opponent they encounter.

The Japanese Women's team's continued success also stands in contrast to the Men's National Football team's performances in recent years. They've turned the Women's World Cup into their own dazzling stage, and fans are loving every moment of it.

While the men's team has consistently qualified for the FIFA Men's World Cup, they have struggled to progress beyond the Round of 16. In the eyes of some, this lacklustre performance may be attributed to the absence of a world-class striker, akin to the observation made in Blue Lock, where the Japanese men's team lacks a standout player like Cristiano Ronaldo or Lionel Messi.

ALSO READ: Blue Lock Anime Review: Shattering the shounen 'power-of- friendship' with self-centred egoists 

With their dynamic playing style and impressive teamwork, the Japanese Women's National Football team is capturing the hearts of football enthusiasts around the globe.

As the Women's World Cup unfolds, the team's success and the excitement surrounding "Project Blue Lock" show that Japan is emerging as a force to be reckoned with in women's football. 

As their journey continues, all eyes are on their upcoming clash with Norway in the Round of 16. The sleeping giants better watch out because Japan is like a ninja - stealthy, deadly, and ready to strike. Here's hoping they go the whole way.

Ganbatte kudasai!