Japan 2-0 Costa Rica: Former World Cup champions progress to Round of 16
Japan successfully secured their place in the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup round of 16 by claiming a routine victory over Costa Rica. During the match, Hikaru Naomoto and Aoba Fujino scored within three minutes of each other in the first half, leading the 2011 champions to a well-deserved three points.
Although Japan’s win put them on the verge of qualification, their progress to the knockout stages was dependent on Spain’s match against Zambia. Fortunately for both Japan and Spain, the latter secured a victory, ensuring the advancement of both teams from Group C.
With six points each in Group C, Japan and Spain have become the first teams to qualify for the next round. They are now set to compete against each other on 31st July to determine the group’s top spot. Japan must secure a win in this upcoming clash to finish in the first position, given Spain’s superior goal difference.
On the other hand, Costa Rica and Zambia faced elimination from the competition after failing to progress to the round of 16. The two teams will meet in their final match, each aiming to secure their first-ever World Cup match victory.
Can the former World Champions win again?
After their stunning victory against the United States in the 2011 final, Japan’s performance on the global stage has been somewhat lacklustre. However, the appointment of Futoshi Ikeda as the manager after the Tokyo Olympics brought a new wave of hope. Under his guidance, Japan has developed an impressive attacking and possession-focused style of football.
Japan has faced fairly weak teams in their group stages – Costa Rica and Zambia – meaning progression to the Round of 16 was not really in doubt.
Whilst they were not as clinical as desired at Dunedin Stadium, they have still secured two wins and scored seven goals in their opening matches.
Ikeda expressed his satisfaction, saying, “We executed our plans effectively and achieved the desired results. Winning points was our priority, and the players came with a serious determination to achieve our common goal.”
The match’s outcome was decided by the 27th minute. First, Naomoto skillfully found the far left corner with a low shot from the left side of the box. Soon after, Fujino showcased her prowess by overcoming a tackle on the right wing, entering the box, and beating goalkeeper Daniela Solera at the near post, scoring her first goal for Japan.
Japan are in fine form, and whilst they haven’t faced hard competition just yet, they’ve shown that they are a real threat for the title.
They face Spain next – who are also in fine form – and the game will determine who tops the group.
