Japan kept its perfect defensive record intact to reach the quarterfinals of the AFC Women’s Asian Cup 2026 without conceding a goal as the Philippines also qualified on Tuesday.

On a day when the action on the field was overshadowed by five players from the Iranian team being granted asylum by host nation Australia, Japan’s 4-0 win over Vietnam ensured a spot for the Philippines on goal difference.

Japan heads into its quarterfinal match-up against the Philippines with three wins from three games and a tournament-leading 17 goals. Japan is the only team yet to concede at the Asian Cup.

Vietnam started against Japan knowing that a three-goal loss would end its chances of qualifying as one of the best third-place teams if Chinese Taipei avoided defeat to India.

Vietnamese goalkeeper Khong Thi Hang made a series of impressive saves to limit Japan to a 1-0 halftime lead but was constantly under pressure from an opponent which had scored 11 goals against India.

Riko Ueki headed Japan’s opening goal, her fourth of the tournament, before Maika Hamano, Aoba Fujino and Kiko Seike all scored against a tiring Vietnamese defense. Japan will meet the Philippines in the quarterfinals.

Vietnam’s Duong Thi Van was taken off late in the game after a clash of heads with Japan’s Mina Tanaka.

Published on Mar 10, 2026