Japan (11th in FIFA rankings) lost to Sweden (3rd in FIFA rankings) and was eliminated in the quarterfinals.
Japan lost 1-2 in the quarterfinals of the FIFA 2023 Australia/New Zealand Women’s World Cup held at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand on the 11th (Korean time). 안전놀이터
Japan, which passed the group stage of this tournament (three matches) with 11 goals and no goals, defeated the strong Norway 3-1 in the round of 16 and continued its challenge for the championship for the first time in 12 years, but was blocked by Sweden that day.
In the 32nd minute of the first half, Amanda Illestedt scored the first goal after a free kick situation. While Sweden had 54% ball possession and 8 shots, Japan didn’t even shoot a single shot.
Sweden made it 2-0 with a penalty kick six minutes into the second half.
Japan missed a penalty kick in the 31st minute of the second half and lost the opportunity to pursue. In the 42nd minute of the second half, Fujino Aoba’s free kick hit the post. Later, Hayashi Honoka made up for one goal, but dropped his head as two shots on target did not lead to a goal in extra time in the second half.
Sweden will clash with Spain at 5 p.m. on the 15th over the ticket to the final. Spain defeated the Netherlands 2-1 in extra time in the quarterfinals.