Japan displayed dominance in a 4-1 victory over South Korea in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 semifinal at Stadium Australia in Sydney. Coached by Nils Nielsen, Japan controlled the game, scoring two goals in each half to secure their spot in the final against hosts Australia.
South Korea, managed by Shin Sang-woo, made lineup changes after their quarter-final win over Uzbekistan. In contrast, Japan fielded key players like goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita, defender Saki Kumagai, and top scorer Riko Ueki.
Japan took an early lead in the 15th minute when Fuka Nagano set up Ueki for a goal. They extended their lead to 2-0 in the 25th minute with Maika Hamano’s brilliant strike. Despite South Korea’s efforts to stage a comeback, Japan maintained control and added a third goal through Kumagai in the 75th minute.
South Korea managed to score a goal through Kang Chae-rim, but Japan sealed the victory with a fourth goal by Remina Chiba in the 81st minute, securing their place in the final.
