Japan edge Ecuador to take top spot - IFA WOMEN'S WORLD CUP
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| AFP |
Ecuador can be proud of limiting the reigning world champions to a slim victory, especially after some more lopsided losses against the likes of Cameroon and Switzerland. In fact, after conceding an early goal to Yuki Ogimi, whose final touch off of captain Aya Miyama’s shot crashed off the underside of the crossbar, the South Americans stopped the Nadeshiko from finding much joy in front of goal.
The only clear-cut chance, which was easily saved by goalkeeper Shirley Berruz, came ten minutes after Japan’s goal when Miyama’s downward header was then tipped off the bar by Berruz after some great skill by Saori Ariyoshi to create space and whip in a cross.
Japan continued to press forward with several attempts, but nothing particularly troubling for Berruz. Ecuador rarely troubled the Asians' backline, but if it was not for a sliding tackle from Megumi Kaminobe in the 65th minute to clear the danger, Kerlly Real would have almost certainly leveled matters for Ecuador.
Yuika Sugasawa drew a gasp from the crowd with her acrobatic overhead-kick ten minutes from time, but her effort hit the crossbar. Berruz then saved Mama Iwabuchi’s point-blank shot to keep it 1-0 a few minutes later.
At the final whistle, Ecuador left the field – although eliminated from the Women’s World Cup – proud to have saved their best performance at Canada 2015 until the end.
Live Your Goals Player of the Match: Aya Miyama (Japan)