Japan successfully defended their women’s Asian Games soccer gold medal in a commanding performance, securing a 4-1 victory over North Korea. The match, witnessed by a passionate crowd of 36,166, saw Japan claim their third Asian Games title in the last four editions.
Despite early pressure from North Korea, Japan took the lead in the 10th minute. Yuzuki Yamamoto’s clever pass behind the defense found Yoshino Nakashima, who clinically dispatched her first-time shot beyond the outstretched goalkeeper Kim Un Hui.
North Korea responded in the 38th minute when Wi Jong Sim sprinted down the left flank and delivered a low cross that Kim Kyong Yong converted into the bottom corner, delighting the crowd.
In the second half, North Korea intensified their efforts, with Hong Song Ok’s shot cleared off the line by Japanese defender Toko Koga. However, Japan regained the lead through a set-piece as Momoko Tanikawa’s corner was headed home by substitute Haruka Osawa.
Only three minutes later, Tanikawa extended Japan’s lead with a shot from the edge of the area that goalkeeper Kim could only deflect into her own net.
Japan sealed the victory in the 72nd minute when Remina Chiba, released from deep, confidently struck her shot over Kim, igniting celebrations among the Japanese players and fans alike.
In the bronze medal decider, host nation China dominated Uzbekistan with a resounding 7-0 victory.
