The U-17 Japan Women’s National Team, led by head coach Sadayoshi Shirai, edged out South Korea 1-0 on May 11 in the U-17 Women’s Asian Cup held in China, clinching a coveted spot in the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. The tightly contested “Japan-Korea” clash was decided by a heroic penalty save from goalkeeper Rina Miyachi and a stunning direct free kick from midfielder Mao Higuchi.
Japan dominated possession early on but struggled to break through South Korea’s disciplined defense. The breakthrough came in the second half when Higuchi stepped up to a free kick from just outside the box and curled the ball over the wall and into the net. South Korea pushed for an equalizer and earned a penalty in the dying minutes, but Miyachi guessed correctly and made a crucial stop to preserve the lead. The victory not only secured Japan’s place in the semifinals but also guaranteed their return to the U-17 Women’s World Cup, reaffirming the team’s status as one of Asia’s rising powers in women’s youth football.
