As the next round of the Women’s World Cup begins to take shape, the action is just getting started as we see Japan and Australia each score 4 past their opponents, Costa Rica and Zambia fight for honor, and Nigeria secure a spot in the next round. Also, get to know Swedish soccer phenomenon Kosovare Asllani in today’s issue of The Short Corner.

Japan vs Spain (4-0)

Spain suffered a 4-0 defeat against Japan in the Women's World Cup, conceding three goals in the first half due to Japan's effective counter-attacks. Hinata Miyazawa scored twice, and Riko Ueki as well as Mina Tanaka also contributed to Japan's victory. Despite dominating possession, Spain struggled to create chances, resulting in a second-place finish in Group C and setting up a last-16 clash with Switzerland. Japan secured top spot in the group and will face Norway in the next round.

Costa Rica vs Zambia (1-3)

In a match between already-eliminated teams, Zambia and Costa Rica displayed an exciting contest. Zambia took an early lead, scoring their first-ever World Cup goal, and later added another from a penalty kick. Costa Rica fought back, reducing the deficit with a goal of their own, but Zambia sealed their victory with a third goal in stoppage time. Despite their previous heavy defeats, Zambia's campaign concluded on a positive note with a memorable win.

Republic of Ireland vs Nigeria (0-0)

Nigeria secured their spot in the round of 16 with a goalless draw against Ireland, finishing second in Group B behind co-hosts Australia. The match remained scoreless, with both teams having their best chances in the first half, including a diving save by Ireland's Courtney Brosnan to deny Nigeria's attempt. Despite their efforts, neither team could find the net, and Ireland earned their first point in their debut appearance at the tournament.

Canada vs Australia (0-4)

Haley Raso scored her first-ever Women's World Cup goals in Australia's crucial 4-0 victory against Canada during the group-stage finale. With goals from Mary Fowler and Steph Catley in the second half, Australia secured the top spot in Group B and a place in the round of 16, eliminating the reigning Olympic champions, Canada, from the tournament. Despite star striker Sam Kerr's return from injury and being on the bench, she didn't play in the match, but the victory ensured that the Women's World Cup would have a host nation in the knockout stage.

Player Spotlight - Kosovare Aslani

Kosovare Asllani is a Swedish attacking midfielder that plays for AC Milan and the Swedish national team. Asllani's talent was evident from a young age when she made her professional debut for Vimmerby IF at the age of 15. Her performances caught the attention of larger clubs, leading her to join Linköpings FC in the Swedish Damallsvenskan before playing at Manchester City, PSG, Real Madrid, and now AC Milan.

Kosovare was called up to the national team in 2008 after a standout season at Linköpings but was controversially left out during of the 2011 Women’s World Cup despite being a key player during qualifications. After being recalled to the squad for the 2012 London Olympics, Asllani has been a mainstay as she led the team to two Silver Medals in the 2016/2020 Olympics and 2nd Place in the 2019 World Cup. This year, she hopes to win it all with the Blågult and add the World Cup Trophy to their cabinet.