Japan women's national football team defeated hosts Australia women's national football team 1-0 to win their third Women’s Asian Cup title in a thrilling final in Sydney.
The match, played at Stadium Australia, was witnessed by a record crowd of 74,397, highlighting the growing popularity of women’s football in the region.
The decisive moment came early in the game when Maika Hamano scored a brilliant goal in the 17th minute. The Tottenham loanee fired a precise shot from the edge of the box into the bottom corner, giving Japan an early lead.
Australia created several strong chances, especially in the first half. Caitlin Foord missed three key opportunities, including a chance following a mistake by goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita, but failed to convert.
Japan nearly doubled their advantage before halftime when Toko Koga connected with a cross from Hinata Miyazawa, but Australian goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold made a crucial save.
The second half saw both teams play at high intensity, exchanging attacks in search of another goal. Australia increased pressure late in the match. Hayley Raso came close after a strong run and cross from Foord, but a last-ditch defensive effort from Rion Kitagawa denied the equaliser.
In the 85th minute, substitute Emily van Egmond had a final chance, but Japan’s defence held firm to secure the win.
This victory marks Japan’s third Women’s Asian Cup title and their third consecutive final win over Australia, having also beaten them in 2014 and 2018.
For Australia, the defeat extends their long wait for a second title, with their only triumph coming in 2010.
