Two-time champion Japan women’s national football team showed its class on the continental stage, defeating the Philippines women’s national football team, 7-0, in the quarterfinals of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup on Sunday at Accor Stadium.

The victory secured Japan a place in the semifinals and guaranteed the team a direct berth to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The result also marked another strong showing for the Japanese side, which entered the tournament as one of the favorites.

For the Filipinas, the defeat ended their quarterfinal run in the competition. However, the Philippines women’s national football team remains in contention for a World Cup spot through the remaining qualification play-in matches.

Meollo shines despite Japan breakthrough

Despite the lopsided scoreline, the Philippines held firm for most of the first half thanks to an impressive debut from rookie goalkeeper Nina Meollo.

Meollo produced several crucial stops and finished with 10 saves in her first international appearance. Her efforts kept the Filipinas in the match as Japan repeatedly tested the Philippine defense.

Japan finally broke through deep into first-half stoppage time. Mana Iwabuchi Tanaka capitalized on a rebound opportunity in the 45th minute after Meollo deflected a volley attempt from Aoba Fujino.

Filipinas head coach Mark Torcaso praised his players for their effort against one of the strongest teams in women’s football.

“The girls understood that they’re playing against one of the best teams in the world,” Torcaso said after the match.

“They were outstanding, with Nina Meollo and Jourdyn Curran starting for the first time in an international game.”

Japan dominates second half to seal victory

Japan found its rhythm in the second half as the attacking pressure continued to mount.

Remina Chiba doubled the lead in the 65th minute with a long-range volley following a challenge along the right flank by Angela Beard. The goal gave Japan further control of the match.

Just two minutes later, Manaka Matsukubo added another goal after slipping past defenders Isabella Pasion, Kaya Hawkinson, and Halli Long inside the penalty area. Long sustained an injury during the play.

Japan continued to dominate offensively throughout the half.

Defender Toko Koga scored twice, including a finish in the 76th minute and a header off a corner kick from Honoka Hayashi during added time.

Late goals from Momoko Tanikawa in the 86th minute and Riko Ueki in the 90th completed the scoring for the Japanese side.

The Filipinas also dealt with injury concerns late in the match as Mallie Ramirez and Malea Cesar required medical attention after the final whistle.

With the result, Japan advances to the semifinals alongside China, South Korea, and Australia. All four semifinalists have secured qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.

Earlier in the quarterfinal round, Australia edged North Korea 2-1 in Perth. China defeated Chinese Taipei 2-0, while South Korea dominated Uzbekistan 6-0.

The Philippines will now shift its focus to the qualification play-in round against Uzbekistan on March 19 at Cbus Super Stadium. The match will determine one of the final Asian qualification spots for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup.