Japan has secured a thrilling quarter-final matchup with Spain at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after defeating Nigeria 2-1 in rainy Bogotá.
The 2018 champions started strongly and, after several near misses, took the lead in the 33rd minute. Rihona Ujihara delivered a cross that Miyu Matsunaga headed in uncontested at the back post.
Nigeria’s best chance came shortly after, with Rofiat Imuran forcing a sharp save from goalkeeper Akane Okuma. However, Japan went into the break with the lead, maintaining their pattern of leading at halftime in every match at Colombia 2024.
Maya Hijikata extended Japan’s advantage midway through the second half, finishing a cross from substitute Chinari Sasai at the back post. This goal placed her joint-top in the Adidas Golden Boot race alongside Brazil’s Vendito.
Olushola Shobowale scored a late goal for Nigeria in stoppage time, but Japan held firm to secure the 2-1 victory and set up an exciting quarter-final clash with Spain, a rematch of the 2022 final.