U20 Women’s Asian Cup: China Falls to Japan, Qualification Prospects in Doubt
Xinhua News Agency, Tashkent – In a tough second-round match of the 2024 Uzbekistan U20 Women’s Asian Cup, the Chinese team suffered a 0-2 defeat against Japan on March 7th. This result has left China in third place in the group standings, leaving their prospects for qualification uncertain.
The Chinese team had previously managed a 1-1 draw against North Korea in their first match on the 4th. With only 1 point from two games, China currently trails behind Japan and North Korea, who hold 6 and 4 points respectively. Their final group stage opponent will be Vietnam on the 10th.
The turning point in the match came in the 26th minute when Japan broke the deadlock with a push shot from Mayo Hijikata. A late goal in the 88th minute from Amano Sa sealed the victory for the Japanese team.
With eight teams competing in the tournament, China finds themselves in Group B alongside Japan, North Korea, and Vietnam. The top two teams from each group will progress to the knockout rounds and secure qualification for the 2024 Colombia U20 Women’s World Cup.
As the Chinese team prepares to face Vietnam in their final group stage match, they will need a strong performance to keep their hopes of qualification alive.