Japan’s women’s national soccer team recently updated its national winning streak record to an all-time high. The team secured victories in matches on November 29 in Hiroshima and December 5 in Okinawa.
Record-Breaking Streak Amid Recent Setback
The Japan Football Association announced the achievement on December 16. This marks the team’s longest unbeaten run in national team history. However, the momentum shifted dramatically just days earlier.
Stunning 0-7 Defeat to Philippines
On December 15 local time at Stadium Australia, Japan suffered a humiliating 0-7 loss to the Philippines in the 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup qualifiers Group 8. The result represents a major upset, with officials noting it as one of the biggest shocks in recent memory. “Even in World Cup qualifiers, this marks a significant upset,” a team spokesperson stated.
Despite the setback, Japan has qualified for the FIFA Women’s World Cup for the 10th consecutive time, having advanced last year in Brazil.
Path Forward and Team Strengthening
The squad aims to rebound by strengthening its lineup following the two recent matches. Plans include selection games against the United States in April and a home fixture in June. By 2026, the team targets the fewest away selection matches possible.
Korea’s Strong Form and Head-to-Head Clash
Meanwhile, South Korea dominates Group 8, securing a 6-0 win over Uzbekistan on December 14. The two nations, locked in intense rivalry, face off on December 18 at 6 p.m. local time at Stadium Australia to determine a key group leader.
Japan holds the FIFA women’s ranking at No. 8 globally and No. 1 in Asia, while South Korea sits at No. 21 but shows upward momentum. Historically, South Korea trails with 4 wins, 12 losses, and 19 draws against Japan. Their biggest victory came in a 2-1 triumph during the 2015 Dong-A Asian Cup—the first in 11 years—followed by 4 losses and 5 draws.
