Japan U20 WNT head coach, Michihisa Kano has urged his team to shift focus from their impressive group stage performance as they prepare for their Round of 16 World Cup match against Nigeria.

Japan advanced to the knockout stage with a perfect record, winning all three of their group matches.

In contrast, Nigeria’s Falconets secured their place with six points, having won two games and lost one.

Despite Japan being considered the favorites by bookmakers, Kano emphasized the need for caution.

“It was very good that we won all three matches but we know that the opponents will be tougher from now on,” Kano was quoted by FIFA.com.”

Japan U20 Football Women’s NT. (Photo by Martín Fonseca/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)

The coach stressed the importance of improving team chemistry and staying well-prepared for the upcoming challenges.

“We need to work on improving our condition and the team’s chemistry. All the remaining teams that we will face from here on will be strong, so we must be well prepared.” he added.

The highly anticipated clash is set to take place at the Estadio El Techo in Bogota.