BTN News: In an electrifying match at the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo in Bogotá, Japan’s U-20 women’s soccer team delivered a commanding 4-1 victory over Ghana in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2024. With this win, Japan secured its place in the tournament’s knockout stages, leaving Ghana without points after two games. The Japanese team displayed a relentless attack, while Ghana’s defense, despite a valiant effort by goalkeeper Afi Amenyeku, struggled to hold back the determined “Nadeshiko.” This match saw thrilling goals, missed opportunities, and a captivating display of skill, underscoring Japan’s growing prowess in women’s soccer.
A Flurry of Goals: Japan’s Dominance on Full Display
Japan wasted no time asserting their dominance in the match. In the final moments of the first half, Chinatsu Sasai broke the deadlock with a well-placed shot in the 45th minute. Just three minutes later, Manaka Matsukubo doubled Japan’s lead with another precision strike, putting Ghana under immense pressure as they went into halftime with a 2-0 deficit.
Ghana Struggles to Break Through a Well-Organized Defense
Despite Japan’s early lead, Ghana, known as the “Black Princesses” and led by coach Yussif Basigi, fought back with determination. Players like Mary Amponsah and Jennifer Dawah made efforts to penetrate the Japanese defense, but they were repeatedly thwarted by Japan’s disciplined backline, effectively guarded by goalkeeper Anke Okuma.
Second Half Surge: Japan Seals the Game with Flair
The second half began with Japan in full control. Just five minutes in, Miku Hayama danced through the Ghanaian defense and slotted the ball into the net, extending the lead to 3-0. Despite a spirited effort from the Ghanaian team, they struggled to create clear chances, often resorting to long-range shots that failed to trouble the Japanese goalkeeper.
Late Drama: Ghana Scores from the Spot but Japan Responds
With seven minutes left on the clock, Ghana managed to pull one back. Stella Nyamekye, Ghana’s captain, converted a penalty after a foul on Okamura, bringing a glimmer of hope to the Ghanaian side. However, Japan quickly extinguished any hopes of a comeback. In the final moments, Miyu Matsunaga sprinted down the field and secured a fourth goal for Japan, solidifying their 4-1 win.
Group E Standings: Japan Leads, Ghana Struggles
This victory places Japan at the top of Group E with six points, having won both of their matches so far. Ghana, on the other hand, remains at the bottom of the group, yet to earn any points from their two outings. The group stage will conclude on Sunday with Japan facing Austria in Bogotá, while Ghana will take on New Zealand in Cali.
Fan Support and Atmosphere: The 12th Player
The Japanese fans, dressed in blue, added to the electric atmosphere in the stadium with rhythmic drum beats and cheers. Their unwavering support seemed to fuel their team’s performance, turning the Estadio Metropolitano de Techo into a cauldron of energy that kept the Ghanaian side under constant pressure.
Missed Opportunities and Near Misses
Japan’s performance could have yielded an even greater scoreline if not for some near misses. Two shots from Japanese players struck the goalposts, denying them what would have been spectacular goals. These moments highlighted both Japan’s attacking prowess and Ghana’s resilient, albeit overwhelmed, defense.
Looking Ahead: Next Challenges for Japan and Ghana
As the group stage nears its end, Japan looks forward to their final group match against Austria, confident in their chances to maintain their unbeaten record. Meanwhile, Ghana will need a significant turnaround against New Zealand to keep any hopes alive in the tournament.
Conclusion
Japan’s impressive 4-1 win over Ghana in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup 2024 not only showcased their attacking talent and defensive strength but also their potential as a formidable contender in this global tournament. With two wins in two matches, the “Nadeshiko” are well-positioned for the next stage, while Ghana must regroup and find a way to overcome their early setbacks.
