Japan booked their place in the AFC Women’s Asian Cup final with a strong 4-1 win over South Korea in the second semi final.
They will now face hosts Australia in the final. Australia reached the title match after a 2-1 win over China. The final will take place on Saturday, March 21.
Japan controlled the match from the start. They kept the ball well and attacked again and again. They had 67 percent possession and took 32 shots. Nine shots were on target and four became goals.
South Korea saw less of the ball. They had 33 percent possession. They took 11 shots but scored only once.
Japan struck early in the first half. Riko Ueki scored in the 15th minute to give them the lead. Ten minutes later, Maika Hamano added the second goal. Japan went into the break with a 2-0 lead.
South Korea tried to come back after the break. They played with more speed but could not find a way through.
Japan scored again in the 75th minute. Saki Kumagai made it 3-0. South Korea pulled one back in the 78th minute through Kang Chae-rim.
Japan ended the game soon after. Remina Chiba scored in the 81st minute to make it 4-1.
Japan stayed in control till the end and secured a clear win to move into the final.
