World Cup winners Spain defeated Japan 2-1 yesterday in a thrilling first match of Group C, featuring high stakes and excellent play from both sides.

The game began at a high tempo, with Japan creating an early chance that tested Spanish goalkeeper Cata Coll. A long ball over the Spanish defence led to a free kick outside the box after a heavy tackle from Patri, earning her the first yellow card of the game.

Japan capitalised on the free kick in a dangerous position when Aoba Fujino scored the opening goal with a well-placed shot. Spain’s initial attempts on goal were scrappy, and the Japanese defence held firm, frustrating the Spanish attack.

As the match progressed, Spain increased their pressure but struggled with intercepted passes. Aoba again troubled the Spanish defenders with a long ball, causing chaos in the box.

Japan’s low defensive block made it challenging for Spain to connect long passes, but the breakthrough came in the 22nd minute with a brilliant solo effort by Aitana Bonmatí, who finished with precision.

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Spain started to look more fluid, creating chances with quick passing. Mariona Caldentey’s clever cut-back was blocked by the Japanese defence and a corner from Alexia Putellas nearly found the net but was ultimateley cleared.

Japan struggled to advance the ball into the Spanish half as Spain dominated possession.

Spain continued to press, with a corner from Putellas allowing Paredes to fire a shot, but Japanese goalkeeper Yamashita Ayaka made a crucial save with her feet. Japan attempted a breakaway through Fujino, but it was flagged offside.

As the first half ended, Spain had three minutes of added time. Despite their efforts, they couldn’t break the Japanese defence, leaving the score tied at halftime.

Second half

The second half began with Japan substituting Seike K for Hamano M. Caldentey set up a corner for Alexia Putellas, but Japan’s defence cleared the danger. Japan countered with a shot by Hamano, but Coll easily collected it.

Athenea del Castillo delivered a great cross, but Paralluelo couldn’t get a shot off. Moments later, Caldentey sent a shot over the bar.

Despite dominating possession, Spain struggled to hit the target, with Caldentey narrowly missing again.

Japan maintained a strong defensive line but suffered a blow during a Spanish attack as Risa Shimizu was injured and had to be stretchered off.

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Spain continued to dominate with their technical play, but Japan’s defence remained strong.

Caldentey, who had been threatening throughout the game, finally scored a superb goal and despite heavy defensive pressure, fired her team into the leading position.

As the game went on, Japan struggled to advance the ball past the Spanish defence, and as the match reached 90 minutes, six additional minutes were added.

During a late attack, Japan broke through Spain’s defence, but the referee accidentally interfered, necessitating a drop ball. Japan had one last chance with a shot from Nagano, but it failed to trouble Coll.

Shortly after, the referee’s whistle blew, confirming Spain’s victory in their first group game and securing their spot at the top of Group C.

Spain next face Nigeria, while Japan comes head-to-head with Brazil on Sunday 28 July.


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