Japan fired a powerful warning shot to their FIFA Women’s World Cup (WWC) rivals by delivering a stunning 4-0 demolition of Spain in a Group C dead rubber clash at Sky Stadium. The victory marked Japan’s first-ever head-to-head win over La Roja, making it a memorable moment for Futoshi Ikeda’s side.
Spain had been quick off the blocks in earlier group games, leading by two or more goals within the first half-hour. However, Japan’s speed on the counter was too much for them to handle in this encounter. The first-half display from the Nadeshiko was enthralling, with Hinata Miyazawa breaking the Spanish offside trap after a pinpoint pass from Jun Endo to open the scoring against the run of play.
Spain, seemingly caught out on the transition time and again, suffered another setback when Riko Ueki’s shot deflected off Irene Paredes and found the net. Miyazawa and Ueki combined yet again, this time with Ueki providing the assist for Miyazawa’s second goal of the game, extending Japan’s lead to three before the break.
Despite Spain’s attempts to mount a miraculous comeback, Japan’s resilient defense and lethal counterattacks left them with no clear path to goal. The Spanish side struggled to register a single shot on target in the second half. Japan continued their dominance and added a fourth goal late in the game, courtesy of substitute Mina Tanaka, who displayed incredible skill to outmaneuver the Spanish defense and fire into the top corner.
With an aggregate score of 11-0 in the group stage, Japan has shown its prowess as a formidable contender for the coveted WWC title. Their impressive performance sets them up for a fourth consecutive appearance in the knockout stage, where they will face Norway in the last 16.
Hinata Miyazawa’s outstanding display earned her the Flashscore Player of the Match accolade. Spain, on the other hand, faces the task of regaining confidence as they prepare to take on Switzerland in the first knockout round.
Congratulations to Japan for their remarkable victory, and the stage is set for an exhilarating knockout phase of the FIFA Women’s World Cup! ⚽🏆 #FIFAWWC #Japan #Spain #Football #WomenInSports
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