Japan stunned stronger Chinese women's soccer squad 1-0 on
Thursday, topping the group and shunning Asiad defending champions
North Korea in the semi-finals at the 15th Doha Asian Games.
China gained upper hand after the opening of the match and Ren
Liping almost broke the balance in the 4th minute. But Japan
quickly recovered and scored at 27th minute when Iwashimizu Azusa
powered home a close-range header from a free kick.
After the goal, it was a bit strange that the whole Chinese team
did not show any determination and morale to cut the deficit,making
few shots on goal.
After the interval, Japan gradually controlled the match and
demonstrated high efficiency, gaining advantage over China. The
stronger-looking Chinese players did not use active tackles to stop
the opponents' attacking, which let the Japanese control the ball
so comfortably. Both teams failed to score again.
China, with six points after three matches, will play North
Koreain semi-finals on Dec. 10.
(Xinhua News Agency December 8, 2006)