Indonesia's World Cup dream backed by Japanese coachーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Journey to the World Cup [0:00]

• Indonesia's women's national soccer team is currently ranked 110th by FIFA.
• The team members are training with the aspiration of competing in the World Cup.
• Their efforts are being guided by a young Japanese coach.

  One day, this country will play in the World Cup.

Coach Taniguchi Takumi's Vision [0:15]

• Taniguchi Takumi, 23, became a coach two years ago.
• Despite his youth, he was determined to lead the team.
• He believes the players have the potential to reach the World Cup.

  I believe these players have that potential, and I want to help make it happen together.

Path to Coaching [0:30]

• Taniguchi played soccer from elementary school through university.
• By age 15, he decided his future was in coaching, not playing.
• He began coaching during his university years.

  But by age 15, he had already decided his future was not as a player, but as a coach.

Global Coaching Aspirations [0:45]

• Taniguchi studied English in Australia to pursue global coaching opportunities.
• His former university mentor, who led Indonesia's women's team, invited him to join.
• His mentor recognized his confidence and ability to communicate effectively.

  He could speak confidently even to people older than him.

Building an Independent Team [1:00]

• Upon joining, Taniguchi observed players often followed instructions without independent thought.
• He aimed to cultivate a team that makes decisions on the pitch.
• This independent mindset is also encouraged off the field.

  So he set out to build a team that thinks and acts independently on the pitch.

Bridging Language and Culture [1:15]

• Taniguchi is learning Indonesian to build stronger relationships with his players.
• Speaking the local language has significantly improved team cohesion.
• This effort has fostered a more positive and smiling atmosphere within the team.

  Speaking Indonesian makes a huge difference.

Signs of Progress [1:30]

• The team's efforts are yielding positive results.
• In a recent FIFA-recognized international friendly, Indonesia achieved a draw.
• They displayed a more confident and aggressive style of play.

  Instead of waiting for instructions, we're expected to think and act for ourselves.

Future Ambitions [1:45]

• Taniguchi is committed to contributing to Indonesia's soccer development.
• The immediate goal is to become a competitive team in Asia.
• The ultimate ambition is to qualify for the World Cup.

  First, we want to become a team that can compete in Asia, and eventually one that can qualify for the World Cup.

Shared Dream [2:00]

• Players are improving their skills through consistent practice under Taniguchi.
• His dedication and the team's shared ambition are key to achieving their World Cup dream.

  Practice by practice, the players are building up their skills under Taniguchi's direction.