Two Liverpool FC Women players, Fuka Nagano and Jenna Clark, had impressive performances for their national teams in the final round of Asian and European qualifiers for the 2024 Olympics.
Nagano helps Japan secure a draw against Korea DPR
Fuka Nagano, the Reds’ midfielder, started and played 70 minutes for Japan as they held Korea DPR to a goalless draw in the first leg of their Asian qualifying tie. Japan, the 2020 Olympic silver medalists, dominated possession and created several chances, but could not find a way past the resilient Korean defense. Nagano, who joined Liverpool from INAC Kobe Leonessa in 2023, showed her creativity and vision in the middle of the park, linking up well with her teammates and setting up some opportunities. The second leg will take place on February 28, with Japan hoping to book their ticket to the 2024 Olympics in Paris.
Clark helps Scotland advance to Pinatar Cup final
Jenna Clark, the Reds’ defender, came off the bench in the second half for Scotland as they beat the Philippines 2-0 to reach the final of the Pinatar Cup in Spain. Clark, who signed for Liverpool from Glasgow City in 2023, replaced Rachel Corsie in the 63rd minute and helped her side keep a clean sheet. Scotland scored twice in the first half through Martha Thomas and Erin Cuthbert, and controlled the game throughout. Clark, who has 12 caps for her country, will hope to feature in the final against Finland on Tuesday. Finland, who have Liverpool’s right-back Emma Koivisto in their squad, defeated Slovenia 1-0 in the other semi-final.
Other Reds in international action
Mia Enderby, the Reds’ goalkeeper, was an unused substitute for England U19s as they lost 3-2 against France at the La Nucia tournament. Enderby, who joined Liverpool from Manchester United in 2023, had kept a clean sheet in the previous game against Spain, which England won 2-0. England will face Germany in their final match on Tuesday.
Teagan Micah, the Reds’ shot-stopper, was also on the bench for Australia as they thrashed Uzbekistan 3-0 in the first leg of their Asian qualifying tie for the 2024 Olympics. Micah, who moved to Liverpool from Melbourne City in 2023, has 11 caps for the Matildas, but was rested for this game. Australia scored three goals in the first half through Kyah Simon, Sam Kerr and Emily van Egmond, and will look to seal their qualification in the second leg on February 28.
