Japan U-20 women win opening FIFA World Cup match against New Zealand

The Japan U-20 women's national team, known as the Young Nadeshiko, secured a 2-1 victory against New Zealand in their opening Group D match of the FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in Poland.

After a scoreless first half, Miyu Matsunaga, who entered the match as a substitute, scored the opening goal in the 49th minute. New Zealand equalized in the 59th minute through Lily Brezendale, but Japan reclaimed the lead in stoppage time. Matsunaga converted a penalty in the 90+2 minute following an on-field review to secure the win.

Japan enters the tournament as the reigning AFC U-20 Women's Asian Cup champions and has reached the finals in three consecutive U-20 World Cups. New Zealand had previously expressed significant caution regarding Japan's technical ability following a 0-7 loss to the team in their previous tournament encounter.