Scoring 30 times more than the opponent, the world's 8th-ranked team in Vietnam's group demonstrates their class.
If one only looks at the score of the match against Chinese Taipei (2-0), no one would think that Japan's women's team - Vietnam's opponent in the final match - is a strong contender for the championship in the 2026 AFC Women's Asian Cup.
Japan's women's team secures a comfortable win against Chinese Taipei, but...
...It was a match where the world's 8th-ranked team showed comprehensive superiority in ball control, attacking organization, and ability to apply pressure. Despite encountering Chinese Taipei's resilient defensive system for most of the match, the Japanese players still managed to make the difference with two goals in the second half.
Of course, the defensive effort and bravery of Chinese Taipei's backline in this match must be acknowledged. Throughout the first half and the first 15 minutes of the second half, goalkeeper Wang Yu Ting, the crossbar, goalposts, and Chinese Taipei defenders had to work continuously at high intensity to keep their net untouched. But what had to happen, happened.
Japan easily defeats Chinese Taipei even without playing at full strength. Photo: AFC
In the 61st minute, after a series of coordinated attacking plays, Momoko Tanikawa made a clever off-the-ball run before decisively finishing to open the scoring. The goal required VAR confirmation but was ultimately awarded to the joy of the Japanese players.
By the 83rd minute, only Wang Yu Ting's brilliance prevented a second goal for the home team after a classy combination by Japan. And in the 90+2nd minute, Kiko Seike rose high for a dangerous header, leaving Wang Yu Ting no chance to save, sealing the 2-0 victory.
Statistics reveal Japan's overwhelming dominance over Chinese Taipei
According to statistics from the concluded match, Japan had 89% possession, shot... 30 times more (30-1), with shots on target being... 10-0. This victory accurately reflects the match's flow: Japan completely dominated the game, created numerous chances, and controlled the tempo. Meanwhile, Chinese Taipei still deserves praise for their resilient fighting spirit.
Based on what transpired, Japan clearly proved they are the strongest team in Group C, and if they improve their finishing, this team remains a serious contender for the championship.
Current Group C standings
Starting lineups for Japan Women vs. Chinese Taipei Women
Japan Women: Yamashita, Shimizu, Minami, Takahashi, Nagano, Tanaka, Kitagawa, Hasegawa, Fujino, Hamano, Tanikawa
Chinese Taipei Women: Wang Yu Ting, Chang Chi Lan, Su Sin Yun, Wu Kai Ching, Chen Jin Wen, Huang Ke Sin, Hsu Yi Yun, Matsunaga Saki, Pu Hsin Hui, Chen Yu Chin
Goalscorers: Momoko Tanikawa 61', Kiko Seike 90+2
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