AFC Women's Asian Cup: China Stun Japan In Semifinals, Face South Korea In Final

A gritty China fought back from a goal-down twice before stunning two-time defending champions Japan 4-3 in the penalty shootout in the semi-finals to book a summit clash against Korea in the AFC Women's Asian Cup on Thursday. Japan led twice in the match, first in the normal time and second in the extra time but China had answers each time to take the match to the penalty shootout at the Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex.

As the epic match ended 2-2 after extra time, China prevailed 4-3 in the dramatic penalty shoot-out to remain on course for a record extending ninth title in the continental showpiece.

The Steel Roses had won seven consecutive titles between 1986 and 1989 before adding another one in 2006.

Japan, who had triumphed in 2014 and 2018, dominated the match but wasted chances to fail in their bid for a hat-trick of titles.

Earlier in the first semifinals at the same venue, Korea defeated Phlippines 2-0 to make it to their maiden semifinals.

The summit clash will be played at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai on Sunday.

Japan made their intentions clear in the first minute with Hinata Miyazawa testing China custodian Yu Zhu from distance, while Riko Ueki missed a golden opportunity to put the defending champions ahead three minutes later from inside the box.

Ueki was a constant threat and almost found the breakthrough after Ruka Norimatsu set her through on goal in the sixth minute but China goalkeeper Yu Zhu was quick to block the forward's effort.

Japan increased the pressure with Saki Kumagai and Mana Iwabuchi both missing from inside the six-yard-box as China soaked up the pressure.

Japan should have taken the lead in the 21st minute when Hinata Miyazawa sent a delightful through ball but Ueki's effort from