Unstoppable Japan Decimate Spain 4-0, Securing Thrilling Clash Against Norway in Last-16 Showdown
Japan dominates Spain with a 4-0 victory, securing their place in the last 16 against Norway The Women's World Cup schedule reveals their upcoming match in the New Zealand capital, while Spain heads to Auckland to face Switzerland earlier on the same day Exciting clashes lie ahead!
In a display of counter-attacking excellence, Japan's former champions secured a commanding victory over Spain, winning 4-0 and securing the top position in Group C at the Women's World Cup. The talented Hinata Miyazawa found the back of the net twice, while striker Riko Ueki also contributed with a goal on the break. Spain's high press was effortlessly bypassed by the Nadeshiko, who executed three rapid raids in the first half. Substitute Momoko Tanaka sealed the impressive win with a superb strike, expanding Japan's lead eight minutes before the final whistle.
Japan, the 2011 World Cup champions and 2015 runners-up, will stay in the New Zealand capital to compete against Norway in the last 16 on Saturday. Meanwhile, Spain will travel north to Auckland to confront Switzerland earlier on the same day.
Having secured their spot in the knockout stage with dominant victories in their initial two group matches, both teams made preparations for the clash at Wellington Regional Stadium. Japan coach Futoshi Ikeda implemented five changes to his lineup.
Spain dominated the game from the beginning, but Japan surprised them with an unexpected goal in the 12th minute. Jun Endo, playing on the left wing, skillfully passed the ball behind the Spanish defense. Miyazawa quickly seized the opportunity and calmly slid the ball into the net with her left foot.
Miyazawa scored her third goal of the tournament, becoming the first player to score against Spain in their three games in New Zealand.
Despite Spain's dominance in possession and territory, the Nadeshiko once again caught them off guard in the 29th minute. Ueki, who was set free by Miyazawa, struck a shot towards the goal that deflected off Irene Paredes, causing the ball to soar over Misa Rodriguez.
Ueki repaid the favor in the 40th minute by delivering a precise through ball to Miyazawa, who skillfully received it on the edge of the penalty area and powerfully struck it with her right foot, beating Rodriguez.
In the second half, Spain displayed greater determination but despite their domination in possession and over 900 completed passes, they failed to pose a significant threat to Japan's undefeated defense, which has yet to let in a goal throughout the tournament.
What is the Women's World Cup schedule?
The group stage has commenced and will span a period of two weeks, culminating on August 3. Following this stage, the group winners and runners-up will advance to the round of 16, set to take place between August 5 and August 8.The quarter-finals, slated for August 11 and 12, will be hosted in Wellington, Auckland, Brisbane, and Sydney.
The initial semi-final is scheduled for August 15 in Auckland, while the second semi-final is set for August 16 at the Accor Stadium in Sydney. The final match will be held at the same stadium on August 20. Preceding the final, a third-place play-off will take place in Brisbane on August 19.
