Norway vs Japan: Match Preview

📸 The Guardian

Norway and Japan go head-to-head in the Women's International Friendly on October 28, 2025, at the Estadio Municipal de La Línea de la Concepción. For Norway, it's a chance to test themselves against one of the world's most technically gifted teams, while Japan aim to maintain their impressive form and refine their tactical cohesion.

Team Form & Recent Results

Norway:

Norway have shown flashes of improvement under head coach Gemma Grainger, though consistency remains a challenge. They've struggled for goals in recent outings, relying heavily on Ada Hegerberg and Elisabeth Terland to create chances. A solid defensive showing will be crucial if they're to contain Japan's quick, fluid attack.

Japan:

Japan enter this fixture in strong form, having impressed with their sharp movement and disciplined structure. Recent wins over top European opposition have underlined their attacking depth and pressing intensity.

Manager Nils Nielsen

has built a side that combines tactical intelligence with technical flair, making them one of the most balanced teams in world football.

Key Players to Watch

Norway - Ada Hegerberg: The Lyon striker remains Norway's focal point in attack, capable of changing a game with her finishing and positioning.

Japan - Hinata Miyazawa: Japan's creative spark in midfield, known for her vision, composure, and ability to find space between the lines.

Young Talent to Watch:

Norway - Sophie Roman Haug: A rising forward with a strong physical presence and aerial ability despite currently being out with ACL injury.

Japan - Aoba Fujino: The winger continues to impress with her pace and technical confidence on the ball.

Tactical Overview

Norway tend to play with a direct and physical approach, often looking to exploit space behind the defence through early crosses and quick transitions.

Their strength lies in width and set pieces.

Japan, on the other hand, prefer a possession-based style, relying on short passing, fluid movement, and quick interchanges in the final third. Expect a tactical battle between Norway's physicality and Japan's precision.

Head-to-Head Record

The two sides have met four times previously, with Japan winning three and Norway claiming one victory. Their most recent meeting came at the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup, where Japan triumphed 3-1 in the Round of 16.

Prediction / What to Expect

With both teams looking to test new combinations, this should be an entertaining contest. Norway's aerial threat and home advantage could cause problems, but Japan's organisation and pace in transition might prove decisive.