Argentina hold Japan for historic first point at Women’s World Cup

Source:AFP Published: 2019/6/11 19:28:40

Japan failed to break down a determined and well-organized Argentine defense in Paris on Monday in the first goalless draw of the Women's World Cup.

Japan, finalists in 2015 and winners in 2011, enjoyed almost two thirds of possession in front of a crowd of 25,000, but only forced two saves from goal­keeper Vanina Correa.

Argentina's women, who have never won a match at the World Cup, managed three tame late strikes, none of which tested Ayaka Yamashita.

The result, which earned Argentina's women their very first point in a World Cup, leaves both teams on one point in Group D, behind England who beat Scotland on Sunday.

When the whistle blew at Paris Saint-Germain's Parc des Princes stadium, Argentina's substitutes jumped off the bench to join the players on the pitch at finally getting a point on the World Cup board at the seventh attempt.

"This point is really important for us. I think we're able to reflect upon what Argentina is and what it means as a team," said Estefania Banini, Argentina's captain who was voted player of the match. 

"We weren't good enough to break down Argentina's defense today,"  said Asako Takakura, the Japan coach. 

Argentina came out to defend with a back four pressing high up the field, the midfield quartet forming a screen a few yards in front and attacker Banini dropping back to fill the gaps. 

It worked.  

"Basically we couldn't play any other way against this team," said Carlos Borrello, the Argentina manager.

"We had to keep ourselves back and focused, and be very, very organized with that sort of attitude to come out with a counterattack. It was satisfying to gain a point in this World Cup."  

Since the group stage only eliminates eight of the 24 teams, the draw leaves ­Japan and Argentina needing one victory in their next two games. 

Both sides will need to find a way to score. 

"We've still got two teams to face and they're going to be really competitive," said Banini.



Posted in: SOCCER

blog comments powered by Disqus