The Women's World Cup witnessed two captivating matches resulting in the first two semifinalists being determined. Spain secured a spot in the final four for the first time in its history by defeating the Netherlands 2-1 in extra time. Meanwhile, Sweden triumphed over Japan 2-1, with Amanda Ilestedt's fourth tournament goal and Filippa Angeldal's penalty. Sweden's victory sets up a clash against Spain in their fifth World Cup semifinal appearance. Also, get to know Japan sensation Rico Ueki and her rise to stardom.

Spain vs Netherlands (2-1)

The 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup quarterfinal kicked off with Spain defeating the Netherlands at Wellington Regional Stadium in New Zealand. Both teams were highly ranked, with Spain at No. 3 and the Netherlands at No. 2. The match showcased key players like Jennifer Hermoso, Alba Redondo, and Jill Roord competing for the Golden Boot award, while Dutch goalkeeper Daphne van Domselaar was a contender for the Golden Glove award. Despite missing star midfielder Daniëlle van de Donk due to suspension, the Netherlands put up a strong fight in the absence of their key player but ultimately fell short and are going home.

Japan vs Sweden

Japan, previously a standout team, entered the quarterfinal against Sweden with a strong record and an exciting style of play under coach Futoshi Ikeda. Despite leading in goals scored (11) during the group stages and a convincing win over Spain (4-0) and Norway (3-1), Japan faltered against Sweden. The team appeared lackluster and only rallied when trailing 2-0, missing opportunities including a penalty by Riko Ueki. This unexpected defeat left Japan's players devastated, as their World Cup prospects were promising, yet their underwhelming performance now opens up the tournament for other contenders.

Player Spotlight: Riko Ueki

Riko Ueki, born on July 30, 1999, in Kanagawa Prefecture, embarked on her football journey in 2011, coinciding with Nadeshiko Japan's triumphant victory in the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup. She joined Tokyo Verdy Beleza's Nadeshiko League club in 2015, transitioning from the youth team to the senior team in June 2016. With an impressive track record, Ueki has scored 50 goals in 119 appearances for Beleza, earning the Most Outstanding Players award in the inaugural 2021-22 WE League (Officially the Japan Women's Empowerment Professional Football League) season.

She showcased her skills on the international stage, contributing to Japan's runner-up finish in the 2016 FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup and playing a pivotal role in their triumph at the 2018 FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup, netting 5 goals. Ueki made her senior national team debut for Japan against France on April 4, 2019, and was initially part of the squad for the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup but had to withdraw due to injury.

However, 2022 became a breakout year for her, establishing herself as a key starting striker. She shone in the 2022 AFC Women's Asian Cup, emerging as Japan's top scorer with five goals and one of the second-highest scorers in the entire tournament. Her remarkable performance led to her inclusion in Japan's squad for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. Having ultimately been eliminated by Sweden last night, they will be looking to regroup and come back stronger in the next Fifa Women’s World Cup.