Six-time champions Japan U20 women’s national team delivered a composed and commanding display to defeat China PR U20 women’s national team 2-0 in the semi-finals of the AFC U20 Women’s Asian Cup 2026 at Thammasat Stadium, Pathum Thani.
The victory sets up a highly anticipated showdown against the defending champions, DPR Korea U20 women’s national team, promising a thrilling title clash between two of Asia’s most dominant youth sides.
Japan wasted little time asserting control of the match, dictating possession and pinning China PR deep in their own half from the opening whistle. Their early pressure paid off in the fifth minute when Noa Fukushima delivered a perfectly weighted pass into the box for Mao Itamura.
The forward displayed remarkable composure under pressure, controlling the ball before unleashing a powerful strike beyond Chinese goalkeeper Liu Chen to give Japan an early 1-0 lead.
China PR nearly responded immediately as Yu Jiaqi broke free down the left flank, but Japan goalkeeper Uruha Iwasaki reacted quickly, rushing off her line to deny the equaliser.
Japan doubled their advantage in the 24th minute through a moment of brilliance from Fukushima. The midfielder curled a stunning free-kick into the bottom-right corner, beating Liu Chen despite the goalkeeper’s full-stretch dive.
The goal further underlined Japan’s technical superiority and control of the match.
Despite the two-goal deficit, Liu Chen produced a series of impressive saves to keep China PR within reach of the contest. The goalkeeper denied Asako Furuta and Natsumi Tago in quick succession during a frantic goalmouth scramble, while Mone Sato fired over the crossbar.
Japan nearly extended their lead before halftime when Itamura glided past two defenders after a clever pass from Yura Honda, but her shot drifted just wide of the right post.
China PR emerged from the break with renewed determination, and Wang Aifang tested Iwasaki with a powerful 25-yard strike. However, Japan’s goalkeeper remained alert to keep her clean sheet intact.
At the other end, Liu Chen continued her impressive performance, producing outstanding saves to deny Mitsuki Ota and later Natsumi Tago, while also punching clear a dangerous cross from Yuna Aoki.
Fukushima nearly added a third in the closing stages with another vicious free-kick, but Liu Chen once again came to China PR’s rescue with a strong parry.
Despite China PR’s late efforts, Japan maintained control and secured a deserved 2-0 victory to advance to the final.
The result sets up a mouth-watering final against DPR Korea, with both sides chasing continental glory.
Credit Photo : AFC
