Japan’s women’s soccer team exited the World Cup with a 2-1 loss to Sweden following a nail-biting finish to their quarterfinal at Auckland’s Eden Park on Aug. 11.
Sweden led 2-0 before substitute Honoka Hayashi breathed life back into Japan’s campaign in the 87th minute, with the 2011 champions pushing desperately for an equalizer during more than 10 minutes of stoppage time.
Amanda Ilestedt gave world No. 3 Sweden the lead in the 32nd minute, and Filippa Angeldal doubled the margin from the penalty spot six minutes into the second half.
Japan never gave up the fight but Riko Ueki missed a 76th-minute penalty and Hayashi’s goal 11 minutes later proved too late as Sweden held firm under immense pressure to progress to the semifinals.
Despite fighting their way back into the contest, Nadeshiko Japan made it hard for themselves by allowing Sweden to dominate early and failing to convert opportunities, said captain Saki Kumagai, the only remaining member of the victorious 2011 squad.
“There were plenty of chances in the end to turn it around,” the Roma defender said.
Manager Futoshi Ikeda spoke of his pride in a young team who exceeded expectations and energized the tournament by scoring 14 goals and conceding just one on their way to the quarterfinals.
“Fighting to the end is something they can be proud of,” Ikeda said. “They showed us what Nadeshiko Japan is all about.” (Kyodo, Reuters)
毎週届く！
