Over the years, Japan"s women"s soccer has steadily lost prestige. Yet a handful of schools still field teams that keep the game alive, and faint sparks of hope are beginning to flare.
Nozomi Onda grew up playing on a boys" club in middle school, and her talent is truly remarkable. Because of this background she feels that competing with girls would only hold her back; she thrives only when challenged by opponents she considers worthy. In contrast, Sumire Suou is a bright newcomer whose extraordinary skill is stifled by a squad that cannot match her pace.
Encouraged by her former coach, Onda joins a girls" club, while Suou arrives with her close friend and rival Midori Soshizaki. The two meet as members of Warabi Seinan High School"s girls" team. On this new pitch they both unleash their full potential, and together with teammates each stride, pass, and goal lifts them toward triumph—and may well bring the sport back into the limelight.
