Japan women's lacrosse team suffers first World Championship loss, 9-11 to Israel

At the 2024 Women's Lacrosse World Championship in Tokyo, the Japan women's national team, ranked fifth globally, recorded its first defeat of the tournament, falling 9-11 to sixth‑ranked Israel. The loss came after a tightly contested four‑quarter match in which Japan briefly tied the score, thanks in part to goals from the Nakasawa sisters, Kōro and Negai.

Despite the setback, Japan finished the group stage with two wins and one loss, securing a spot in the quarter‑finals scheduled for 29 June at the same venue. The tournament marks a milestone for the sport, which is slated to return as an Olympic event at the 2028 Los Angeles Games, prompting heightened interest and a push for stronger performances.

The Japanese side featured a mix of seasoned players and the Nakasawa sisters, daughters of former football international Yūji Nakasawa, who have become prominent figures in the team’s attack and midfield. Their contributions highlighted the growing talent pool in Japanese lacrosse ahead of future international competitions.