CNN




 

Japan all but guaranteed its spot in the knockout phase of the Women’s World Cup thanks to a 2-0 victory over Costa Rica on Wednesday.

Two quickfire goals just before the half hour, firstly from Hikaru Naomoto and then a second from Aoba Fujino two minutes later, were enough to give Japan its second win of the tournament.

It was nothing less than Japan deserved, who thoroughly dominated the game and looked good for its three points at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin, New Zealand.

With six points from its opening two games, Japan knows that a win by Spain against Zambia later on Wednesday will assure both teams’ spot in the last 16 of the Women’s World Cup.

Japan will face Spain in its final Group C game on Monday, July 31, knowing that – should La Roja beat Zambia – the winner will face the runner up of Group A and the loser will face the top team of Group A.

 

In form

Having comfortably beaten Zambia 5-0 in its opening game, Japan continued its impressive showing at the World Cup against Costa Rica.

Through its slick passing maneuvers and tactical rigidity, it looked a class above the world No. 36, creating chances at will.

The breakthrough finally came in the 25th minute, Naomoto emphatically punishing an ill-timed mistake from a Costa Rican defender, powering the ball into the bottom corner to open the scoring.

And just two minutes later, the Asian nation had its second of the game.
19-year-old forward Fujino, showing some tight dribbling skills and explosive speed to evade one defender, burst into the box before smashing the ball past Las Ticas goalkeeper Daniela Solera at her near post.

With its lead, Japan never let up, continuing to show its effective combination build up play and hard work off the ball as it stifled any Costa Rican attacks.

Although it will face much stiffer tests going forward, Japan has shown its credentials for competing for a second World Cup title.

As for Costa Rica, it will be eliminated from the World Cup if Spain avoids defeat against Zambia.