Two-time champion Japan secured a spot in the knockout stage of the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup by defeating India 11-0 in a dominant performance. Riko Ueki and Hinata Miyazawa both scored hat-tricks, while Kiko Seike netted twice in the match held at the Perth Rectangular Stadium in Western Australia.
Japan took control early on, scoring three goals within the first 20 minutes, with Yuzuki Yamamoto’s impressive strike in the fourth minute setting the tone. Ueki, who came on as a substitute at halftime, scored her first goal just two minutes later and completed her hat-trick with a header in the 65th minute.
With this victory, Japan leads Group C with a three-point advantage over Chinese Taipei and Vietnam, securing a place in the quarterfinals. Their next match is against Vietnam, while India will face Chinese Taipei in the final round of Group C.
In another match, Chinese Taipei defeated Vietnam 1-0 in a closely contested game at the Perth Rectangular Stadium. Su Yu-hsuan’s goal proved to be the difference as Vietnam struggled to match their opponent’s performance in the challenging weather conditions.
Despite Vietnam’s efforts to equalize, Chinese Taipei maintained their lead and held on for the win, keeping their hopes alive for advancing to the knockout stage. Both teams are currently tied with three points each in Group C, awaiting their upcoming matches to determine their fate.
