WILLINGTON: In a thrilling day of Women’s World Cup action, Japan put an end to Spain’s dominant run with a clinical 3-1 victory over Norway, securing their place in the quarterfinals. Meanwhile, Spain crushed Switzerland 5-1 to reach the quarterfinals for the first time in their history.
Japan, the surprise title contenders, continued their impressive form by overpowering Norway with a display of attacking prowess. The 2011 champions have been in top-notch form throughout the tournament, winning all four of their games in Australia and New Zealand, including a stunning 4-0 victory over Spain. Hinata Miyazawa emerged as a breakout star, notching her name as the tournament’s top scorer with a decisive goal nine minutes from time, sealing Norway’s fate in front of 33,000 passionate fans in Wellington. Goals from Risa Shimizu and Miyazawa in the second period proved too much for Norway to handle, despite their late surge in attack. Goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita’s breathtaking save in injury time further solidified Japan’s determination to become even harder to beat as the Women’s World Cup progresses.
On the other side of the pitch, Spain showcased their brilliance against Switzerland, dominating the match with a resounding 5-1 triumph. Aitana Bonmati played a starring role, bagging two goals and providing two assists in front of a record-breaking crowd of 43,217 at Eden Park in Auckland. Spain’s coach, Jorge Vilda, made five changes to his starting line-up, showing the depth of talent within the squad. Despite the humbling they received from Japan in the group stage, Spain’s relentless performance proved they are a force to be reckoned with and are ready to create history in the tournament.
Japan to Face Either US or Sweden in Quarterfinals
Looking ahead to the quarterfinals, Japan will face either the United States or Sweden. With their impressive form and clinical execution, Japan has proven that they will be a formidable opponent for anyone in the knockout stages. Spain, on the other hand, awaits their next challenger, which will be either the Netherlands or South Africa. As the tournament progresses, the competition is becoming more intense, with top-ranked teams facing fierce challenges from determined underdogs.
In the last-16 encounter scheduled for Sunday, the United States will face Sweden, with both teams aiming to secure a spot in the quarterfinals. Despite the US team’s underwhelming performances so far, they are eager to continue their pursuit of a historic third Women’s World Cup crown in a row. Sweden, ranked third in the world, is determined to put up a strong fight and advance to the next stage.
Meanwhile, the Netherlands, the 2019 runners-up, will clash with South Africa in another exciting last-16 match. South Africa, ranked 54th in the world, has already demonstrated their resilience and determination by securing a place in the knockouts with a stunning 3-2 victory over Italy. The Netherlands will have to be cautious and not underestimate their spirited opponents, as upsets have been a recurring theme in this enthralling Women’s World Cup.
As the tournament progresses to the knockout stages, the excitement continues to build, and football fans around the world eagerly await more captivating performances from these talented teams.
