Japan survive New Zealand challenge as Matsunaga strikes twice in dramatic U20 World Cup opener

Japan began their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup campaign with a hard-fought victory over New Zealand, with substitute Miyu Matsunaga scoring the decisive penalty deep into added time.

The result came after Japan had controlled much of the first half, although their sustained pressure initially failed to produce a goal. Miharu Shinjo was among those to threaten, while Japan’s attacking players repeatedly tested a New Zealand defence that remained determined to hold firm.

Japan’s dominance before the interval was not reflected on the scoreboard. New Zealand’s back line resisted wave after wave of pressure, but the effort required to contain their opponents began to take its toll as the game progressed.

At half-time, Japan’s coach made changes to the attacking department in an attempt to add fresh energy. The decision quickly proved influential. Matsunaga, introduced during the interval, broke the deadlock and rewarded the changes made by her manager.

New Zealand responded strongly to falling behind. The Young Football Ferns refused to allow Japan to take control of the match and found an equaliser 10 minutes after Matsunaga had opened the scoring.

Lily Brazendale brought New Zealand level, raising hopes that her side could secure a draw after withstanding Japan’s earlier pressure. Japan, however, continued to push for a winning goal and were handed a late opportunity when the referee awarded a penalty following a VAR review.

Matsunaga stepped up in added time and converted from the spot, completing a decisive personal contribution on her introduction and giving Japan a 2-1 victory.

The win provides an important start for Japan, who finished as runners-up in the previous edition of the tournament. Their success also serves as an early warning to the rest of the competition, after they demonstrated both attacking persistence and the ability to respond to a difficult late contest.

Japan will face the United States in the second round of group matches in what is expected to be the day’s headline fixture. New Zealand, meanwhile, will look to recover against Italy after being denied a point in the final moments.

The defeat leaves the Young Football Ferns needing a positive result in their next game, while Japan can prepare for the meeting with the United States knowing their opening performance has already delivered three points.