Westfield Matildas' recent history against Japan

In a repeat of the final four years ago, the Westfield Matildas will take on Japan on Saturday morning (AEST) to decide who will be the champions of the 2018 AFC Women's Asian Cup.

Australia and Japan have been two of the regions superpowers in recent years and have played out some cracking matches.

While Japan holds a better head-to-head record against the Westfield Matildas, Alen Stajcic's side have enjoyed more success recently.

Here are Australia's last three fixtures against Nadeshiko. 

April 13, 2018

Australia 1-1 Japan (2018 AFC Women's Asian Cup in Jordan)

You don’t have to go too far back for the last time these two met, with the sides playing in the group stage just last weekend.

With top spot in the group – and a berth at next year’s FIFA World Cup – on the line, it was a typically tight contest which could have gone either way.

Japan looked on course for the win when Mizuho Sakaguchi gave them the lead just after the break, an advantage they preserved until deep into the match.

But that’s when Sam Kerr broke their hearts.

The Westfield Matildas’ golden girl netted four minutes from time to secure a draw which sent both nations through to the semis, as well as next year’s World Cup in France.

Sam Kerr

July 30, 2017 

Australia 4-2 Japan (Tournament of Nations Friendly tournament in San Diego)

Australia really showed how far they've come with a thumping performance lead by the breakout star of 2017, Sam Kerr. 

She smashed a first-half hat-trick in a sunny San Diego after the Japanese took an early lead.

Emily Van Egmond capping  a stunning display against Nadeshiko with a fourth goal for Alen Stajcic's side. 

Momiko with a second for Japan in time added on but the day belonged to the Australians. 

Sam Kerr
The Sam Kerr show in San Diego

February 29, 2016 

Japan 1-3 Australia (Olympics 2016 qualifier tournament in Osaka)

Wow! This was the game that showed a power shift in Asia.

Broadcast on Channel 7, and with a place at Rio 2016 the prize, Australia met the home nation in their opening match of the qualifiers with many believing the Japanese would be too strong. 

First-half goals from Lisa De Vanna and Michelle Heyman stunned the hosts.

Yuki Ogimi pulled a goal back with the final action of a thrilling first half, but "Mini" Gorry sealed a famous victory 12 minutes from time.

Australia had made a massive statement and, subsequently, went on to qualify for Rio easily. 

Matildas
"KK" in action against Japan in Osaka

 

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This article was originally published on the CommBank Matildas website.
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