Welcome to Sportz Point's post-match report of the World Cup Qualifier clash between Japan and China. Japan's win today increases their goal tally to 39 so far in the qualifiers and with a 20-plus goal difference this country is on course to qualify for the World Cup in a remarkable style. Here, we break down all the key moments and highlights from the game.

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First Half

Japan took control of the game from the opening whistle, dominating possession and relentlessly pressuring the Chinese defense. The first notable chance came in the 10th minute when Chinese attacker Wei Shihao received a brilliant through ball from Wang Shangyuan and fired a right-footed shot. However, the tight angle denied him a goal.

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Double trouble! ⏩

You can always count on Koki Ogawa to deliver-again!#AsianQualifiers | #CHNvJPN pic.twitter.com/c9QyA5atDb
— #AsianQualifiers (@afcasiancup) November 19, 2024

Despite mounting pressure, Japan struggled to convert until the 39th minute when Koki Ogawa headed a Takefusa Kubo corner into the bottom left corner. Just before the halftime whistle, Ko Itakura doubled the lead, capitalizing on a well-delivered corner by Koki Machida. The first half ended with Japan firmly in control, leading 2-0.

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Second Half

Perfect corner + perfect header = a match made in heaven! ⚽❤️#AsianQualifiers | #CHNvJPN pic.twitter.com/dyUuKhuggJ
— #AsianQualifiers (@afcasiancup) November 19, 2024

China started the second half with intent, as Wei Shihao delivered a precise pass to Lin Liangming which he finished beautifully just four minutes after the restart.

Xie Wenneng nearly equalized with a powerful left-footed strike from outside the box, but the Japanese goalkeeper made a crucial save to his left.

Both teams enjoyed spells of possession, seeking opportunities to score. In the 54th minute, Koki Ogawa extended Japan's lead, heading in a well-placed cross from Junya Ito.

Despite several attacking attempts from both sides, no further goals were scored, and the match concluded after seven minutes of added time.

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Final Score

China- 1 (Lin Liangming 48')

Japan- 3 (Koki Ogawa 39' 54', Ko Itakura 45'+6)

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