Facing one of the tournament’s strongest contenders, Vietnam adopted a cautious approach from the opening whistle, dropping deep and allowing Japan to control possession. Under constant pressure from the Japanese side, Vietnam’s defense had to work relentlessly.

The breakthrough came in the 22nd minute when Riko Ueki headed home from close range after a cross from the flank. Despite conceding, goalkeeper Khong Thi Hang delivered several crucial saves, helping Vietnam limit the deficit to 1-0 at halftime.

Japan intensified their pressure after the break.

Maika Hamano doubled the lead in the 51st minute with a close-range finish following a quick attacking move. Head coach Mai Duc Chung responded by introducing veteran striker Huynh Nhu to strengthen the attack.

However, the pace and technical superiority of the Japanese side gradually exposed gaps in Vietnam’s defense. Aoba Fujino extended the lead to 3-0 in the 64th minute before Kiko Seike sealed a comprehensive 4-0 victory three minutes later.

The defeat officially ended Vietnam’s journey in the group stage of the Women’s Asian Cup 2026. In the other match of the group, Chinese Taipei defeated India 3-1 to secure second place in Group C behind Japan and claim a spot in the quarterfinals.

Meanwhile, the two best third-placed teams advancing to the quarterfinals were Uzbekistan and the Philippines.

Despite the heavy loss, coach Mai Duc Chung praised his players for their effort against a world-class opponent.

“In sports, especially football, there are always wins and losses. As head coach, I must take responsibility for the team’s results,” he said after the match.

“Japan are a very strong team with a much higher level than us. However, our players gave their best effort. What they showed today deserves recognition. We need to continue working hard and focus more on developing youth football,” Chung added.

The veteran coach also pointed to physical fatigue as a key factor behind the team’s second-half struggles.

“In the previous match, our players spent a lot of energy playing under hot conditions. In the second half today, their physical condition declined, so the intensity dropped compared to the first half. Japan exploited the middle and the flanks with quick combinations and crosses, which made it difficult for us to keep up,” he explained.

Chung also noted the rapid development of women’s football across Asia.

“In Southeast Asia, teams such as Vietnam and the Philippines are investing more in women’s football. Across Asia, countries like Iran and Uzbekistan are also paying greater attention to developing the women’s game. The Asian Football Confederation is making strong efforts to promote women’s football in the region,” he said.

Following the tournament, Mai Duc Chung confirmed he will step down as head coach of the Vietnam women’s national team.

“After this tournament, I will step aside. I’m happy that someone new will soon take over and continue leading the Vietnam women’s team,” he said.

Thien Binh - Dai Nam