Japan and Spain became the first two teams to book their spots in the knockout stage of the 2023 Women's World Cup on Wednesday.
Two goals in two minutes
Aoba Fujino (#15) celebrates with her teammates after securing Japan's 2-0 victory over Costa Rica at Dunedin Stadium in Dunedin, New Zealand, July 26, 2023. /CFP
Hikaru Naomoto and Aoba Fujino scored two minutes apart in the first half to lead Japan to a 2-0 victory over Costa Rica.
Left winger Naomoto struck first in the 25th minute, pouncing on a slip from Maria Paula Coto and storming into the area before stroking the ball into the net past the dive of goalkeeper Daniela Solera.
Two minutes later, teenager Fujino turned a defender on the right wing, ran directly at goal and beat Solera at her near post from a tight angle.
Hinata Miyazawa (L) of Japan celebrates after scoring a goal against Zambia during their Group C match at the Women's World Cup in Hamilton, New Zealand, July 22, 2023. /CFP
Japan romped to a 5-0 win over Zambia in their Women's World Cup opener at Waikato Stadium on July 22.
Costa Rica, who were beaten 3-0 by Spain on July 21, were barely able to land a blow on their opponents.
Japan face Spain in Wellington on July 31 for top spot in the group. Costa Rica will play Zambia in Hamilton at the same time as both sides continue to seek their first World Cup win.
Another 5-0 defeat
Players of Spain celebrate their victory over Zambia during their Group C match at the Women's World Cup at Eden Park in Auckland, New Zealand, July 26, 2023. /CFP
From start to finish, Spain dominated their match with a 5-0 victory over Zambia.
Zambia were among eight teams who made their debuts in the Women's World Cup, which is expanded from 24 to 32 teams this year.
Zambia, the debutantes from Africa, were confirmed to exit the tournament after a consecutive 5-0 loss to opponents in the group stage.
Spain's Teresa Abelleira scored the opening goal in the ninth minute, the fastest goal of the Women's World Cup so far.
Jennifer Hermoso scored twice and assisted in her 100th international appearance for Spain.
Alba Redondo also scored two goals in the 69th and 85th minutes. Her first goal was an impressive run off of a long pass, while her second was on a rebound in front of an empty net.
(With input from agencies)