Mei Hanashiro gives Japan the equaliser
Asian powerhouses Japan and China are through to the quarter-finals of the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup Morocco 2026.
Japan came from behind to defeat Kenya 3-1 in their last 16-tie. The East Asian side extended their remarkable record of reaching at least the quarter-finals at every edition of the U-17 showpiece and will meet Ghana in the last eight.
Kenya took the lead just before the half-hour mark against the run of play when Brenda Achieng charged towards goal and slotted the ball past Kou Kadowaki into the corner.
Their advantage did not last long. Harura Matsushita’s long-range effort deflected into the path of Mei Hanashiro, who struck home powerfully to equalise in the 36th minute.
Nanami Kurita put Japan ahead in the 59th minute after capitalising on a loose ball in the area following a corner, before Asuka Tanaka sealed the win with 15 minutes to spare.
China displayed mental strength and resilience to defeat France 4-3 on penalties after their last 16 tie ended goalless.
The reward for the East Asian side is a quarter-final meeting with Brazil – who also sneaked through on penalties against Poland – on Sunday.
The Asian side could not be separated from France during regulation time, as both sides battled to the first goalless draw of the tournament.
France dominated the opening half but could not make the most of their possession.
Their best chance came in the ninth minute, when Maelys Ane forced a brilliant save from Niu Ziqi.
It was Niu who proved the match-winner during the spot-kicks, saving from Lea Motyka and Lisa Mabilon to help China PR reach the last eight for the first time.
RESULTS
USA beat Spain 2-1
Japan beat Kenya 3-1
Nigeria beat Mexico 2-1
China beat France 0-0 (4-3)
