Head Coach Yussif Basigi is optimistic that the Black Princesses will recover from their opening loss to Austria and secure a positive result against Japan in their second Group E match.

Despite Japan’s impressive performance in their previous game, Basigi is focused on approaching the match with a positive mindset and a solid tactical plan.

The Black Princesses are determined to move past their defeat and play a strong game to keep their hopes of advancing from the group stage alive.

"After our defeat to Austria, we have worked hard to motivate the players to move on and focus on the next game," Basigi said.

"Many will view us as underdogs because of Japan's dominant win, but we see ourselves as serious contenders and are preparing accordingly."

Basigi emphasized that regardless of the outcome of the first game, the team is focused on the task at hand.

"The players have moved past the first game, and we would have approached this match with the same mindset even if we had won. We have devised a tactical plan to contain the Japanese offense and are confident in our strategy," he added.

He also reassured that the team is not intimidated by Japan's previous performance. "We have analyzed the team they played against and assessed our strengths.

The players are confident and ready to deliver. We have made it clear that a defeat tomorrow is not an option; we need to play with determination and focus."

The Black Princesses will face Japan on Thursday, September 5, 2024, at 22:00 GMT, in what promises to be a crucial encounter in their campaign.