Chika Hirao

is a Japanese professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper for WE League club Albirex Niigata and the Japan national team.

Club career Hirao was born in Matsudo, Chiba on 31 December 1996. She joined L.League club Urawa Reds from JFA Academy Fukushima in 2014. She played many matches as a regular goalkeeper, helping the club become the champions in the first season. However her opportunity to play decreased behind Sakiko Ikeda from 2015 season. In 2018, she moved to Albirex Niigata.

International career In September 2012, when Hirao was 15 years old, she was selected Japan U-17 national team for 2012 U-17 Women's World Cup and she played 3 matches as regular goalkeeper. In November 2016, she was selected Japan U-20 national team for 2016 U-20 Women's World Cup. She played 5 matches and Japan won the 3rd place.

In April 2018, Hirao was selected Japan national team for 2018 Women's Asian Cup. Although she did not play in any matches, Japan won the championship after two tournaments in a row. On 2 August, she debuted against Australia.

On 10 May 2019, Hirao was included in the 23-player squad for the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup.

On 18 June 2021, she was included in the Japan squad for the 2020 Summer Olympics.

On 13 June 2023, she was included in the 23-player squad for the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023.

On 14 June 2024, Hirao was included in the Japan squad for the 2024 Summer Olympics.

Hirao was part of the Japan squad that won the 2025 SheBelieves Cup.

Career statistics Club

International