Japan triumphed over South Korea in a tense battle to secure qualification for the U-17 Women’s World Cup. 
Goalkeeper Ayaka Miyachi made a crucial penalty save to keep Japan alive. [Photo: Naoki Nishimura/Aflo Sport]
The U-17 women’s national team, affectionately known as the Little Nadeshiko, claimed a dramatic victory in the Japan-Korea match, earning their ticket to the world stage. Facing South Korea in the U-17 Women’s Asian Cup on May 11, Japan secured a 1-0 win with a goal scored shortly after a penalty save.
This tournament also serves as qualification for the U-17 Women’s World Cup to be held in Morocco this October, with the four semifinalists earning spots. Japan, which topped Group B, faced South Korea, the second-place team from Group C, in a decisive showdown for a place at the World Cup.
The match remained deadlocked at 0-0 until the 25th minute of the second half, when South Korea was awarded a penalty. In a moment of desperation, Japanese goalkeeper Ayaka Miyachi read the shot perfectly and saved the spot kick. Her teammates quickly cleared the rebound, denying South Korea the lead.
Just three minutes later, in the 28th minute, Japan won a free kick from the left side, about 45 degrees out. Midfielder Rara Higuchi’s beautifully curved strike dipped and curled into the near post, leaving the goalkeeper no chance. That stunning goal proved to be the winner, giving Japan a 1-0 victory and opening the door to the World Cup.
