Japan and Spain advanced to the round of 16 at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup earlier than any other two teams.
Hikaru Naomoto and Aoba Fujino scored goals within two minutes of each other in the first half as the Japanese defeated Costa Rica 2-0 to advance to the quarterfinal round.
As a result of Spain’s 5-0 thrashing of Zambia in the following match, both countries will not be caught in their concluding group encounters.
“We did what we needed to do, and we did it well,” said Japan’s coach Futoshi Ikeda, adding, “Some of the players are at their first World Cup, but they are so enthusiastic, and that makes me so pleased.
“Overall, the team is functioning as a unit… the atmosphere is positive, the energy is positive, and the staff also exudes positive vibes, which I believe aids the team as well.”
On the other hand, Spanish Coach Jorge Vilda stated, “The objective has been attained.” We have won our second game, surpassed Japan in goals-per-game average, and still have a clean sheet, but it is evident that we must improve.
Vilda added, “The game is better today. We must continue to evolve and improve as a unit.”