Daijiworld Media Network - Sydney

Sydney, Mar 21: Japan women's national football team continued their ?????? run by defeating hosts Australia women's national football team 1-0 in the final of the AFC Women's Asian Cup 2026 at Stadium Australia on Saturday, securing their third title in tournament history.

The decisive moment came in the 17th minute when Maika Hamano struck a ?????? curling goal from outside the box, beating goalkeeper Mackenzie Arnold to give Japan the lead.

Despite the early setback, Australia—backed by a record crowd of over 74,000—started strongly. Mary Fowler initiated a key attack, linking up with Caitlin Foord, who set up captain Sam Kerr. However, Japan goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita produced a crucial save to deny the opener.

Japan gradually took control after scoring, relying on their composed passing game while remaining defensively solid. A brief scare came when a clearance error from Yamashita fell to Foord, but defender Hana Takahashi intervened to prevent an equaliser.

In the second half, Australia pushed forward with increased possession, with Kyra Cooney-Cross attempting a long-range effort, but Japan’s defence held firm. The closing stages saw Japan adopt a compact defensive approach, successfully repelling all Australian attacks.

With this victory, Japan add to their previous titles in 2014 and 2018—both also won against Australia—further cementing their dominance in Asian women’s football.