In the first round of the group stage, Japan's performance was one of the best in the top 32. They are expected to shine again when they face Costa Rica in the second round of Group C.
In the Japanese team, the Yamato Nadeshiko fighters were in high spirits, especially in the 5-0 win over Zambia, where teamwork was on full display. Personally, I will remember nothing more than the outstanding performance of Hinata Miyazawa, who scored twice in the first group game to help her team to a big win over their opponents.
It's worth noting that the backline, led by Saki Kumagai, a member of the 2011 Women's World Cup winning team, was solid and managed to pull off a shutout. However, I think Japan's midfield is the real strength.
Manchester City star Vino Hasegawa acted as Japan's midfield commander, providing strong support to strikers Kazuhana Nagano and Aoba Fujino. Unfortunately, Fujino Aoba was unlucky to capitalize on his scoring chances in the last match.
Meanwhile, Costa Rica went down 0-3 to Spain in their opening match, but they showed impressive defensive resilience against a tough opponent, especially in the early stages of the game, and managed to withstand the onslaught of their opponents.
It is worth mentioning that goalkeeper Daniela Sonera's birthday present was quite special. Not only did she save her team from a tough loss to Spain, but she also successfully saved Jennifer Boots Mosel's 12-yard penalty kick, demonstrating a high level of professionalism.
