The prestigious tournament, which is being held in Australia and New Zealand, is on the horizon with the tournament set to begin in less than two weeks.
A total of 13 members of City’s squad, stretching across seven countries, have been included in their nation’s confirmed squads for the tournament.
And this time we shine the spotlight on one of City’s midfielders...
City career so far
Competitive debut: 16 October 2022
Appearances: 27
Goals: 1
Honours
International:
AFC Women’s Asian Cup: 2018
Asian Games: 2018
EAFF Women’s Football Championship: 2019
Previous World Cup performances
After making her senior international debut in March 2017, Hasegawa experienced her first World Cup with Japan in 2019.
Although Japan were eventually beaten by the Netherlands in the Round of 16 to a last-minute penalty, Hasegawa’s goal earlier in the game would go on to be nominated for the Goal of the Tournament award.
Player Profile
Hasegawa, a versatile midfielder, made the switch from London to Manchester in September 2022 after enjoying an impressive debut season at West Ham, even scoring an audacious long-range chip against City.
She had the perfect start to her City career, with a brilliant long-range goal to complete a 4-0 win over Leicester on her debut, setting the tone for the season ahead.
Her ability on the ball in all areas of the pitch helps the team tick, making her an integral part of this City side, while also allowing her partners in midfield to have a greater influence in the final third.
It doesn’t come as a surprise to see the likes of Laura Coombs and Filippa Angeldalhl excelling individually since the arrival of Hasegawa, with her positional awareness and intelligence allows her team mates to flourish in attacking areas.
Gareth Taylor labelled her “top class” after a series of impressive performances for City.
When playing for Japan, Hasegawa is often utilised in a more attacking role, which she is equally as comfortable with, highlighting her versatility.
Having already earned 65 appearances for her national side, the 26-year-old will aim to be a standout as Japan look to add to their World Cup tally, 12 years after their previous success at the 2011 finals.
Fixtures
Zambia v Japan | Saturday 22 July | 08:00 (UK) | Waikato Stadium, Hamilton
Japan v Costa Rica | Wednesday 26 July | 06:00 (UK) | Otago Stadium, Dunedin
Japan v Spain | Monday 31 July | 08:00 (UK) | Wellington Regional Stadium, Wellington
