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Following the U-17 China national team's defeat by the U-17 Japan national team in the final of the AFC U17 Asian Cup soccer tournament, finishing as runner-up, numerous voices have risen in China questioning the responsibility of Toshimi Ukishima, the Japanese coach leading the U-17 China national team.
Following the U-17 China national team's defeat by the U-17 Japan national team in the final of the AFC U17 Asian Cup soccer tournament, finishing as runner-up, numerous voices have risen in China questioning the responsibility of Toshimi Ukishima, the Japanese coach leading the U-17 China national team. In the final held on the 23rd (Japan time), China retreated to their own half to solidify their defense, but Japan repeatedly broke through, finishing the first half with a 3-0 lead. However, the second half saw China's pace as they launched a counterattack, scoring one goal immediately after the start, and then converting a penalty kick (PK) in the 78th minute to narrow the deficit to one goal. Despite this, Japan did not allow any further counterattacks, overcoming a resilient China with a 3-2 victory, and clinched the championship. After the match, the Chinese Football Association praised the U-17 China national team, stating, "Under the guidance of coach Toshimi Ukishima, they constantly grew and transformed. They tenaciously advanced through the group stage, and became braver with each match in the knockout stage." On the other hand, from commentators and fans, voices questioning Coach Ukishima's responsibility are erupting. Renowned football commentator Dong Lu stated, "The truth cannot be seen without comparison. Comparing the semi-final between Uzbekistan and Japan with the final between China and Japan, the flow and result of the first half were completely different. It's clear that Coach Ukishima made a significant tactical error," criticizing the passive play in the first half. In comments posted on Chinese sports media platform Zhibo.tv, in order of highest sympathy, they were: "They should change the coach and goalkeeper. After all, Japanese people cannot be trusted." "Man-made disaster. A complete man-made disaster. Toshimi Ukishima should bear all responsibility." "Remove Toshimi Ukishima." and "Toshimi Ukishima, save face and resign yourself." Furthermore, in response to a comment saying, "We completely dominated the second half. Why did we concede 3 goals in the first half?", a reply stating, "It's simple. Because our coach is Japanese," was posted, garnering much sympathy. In addition to these, "Coach Ukishima must resign!!" "It's the coach's responsibility. What was the strategy in the first half?" "This result is unacceptable. We should have played a better game." "A complete man-made disaster. The commander is incompetent. The players are to be pitied." and "No more Japanese coaches, please!" were among the flood of harsh comments. (Translation/Editing by Kitada)
CGTN Japanese
2026/7/14
CGTN Japanese
2026/7/14