Already eliminated, Zambia defeated Costa Rica (2-1) on Monday in their last group match of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Meanwhile, Japan humiliated Spain (4-0) and finishes first in the same Group C.
Group C of the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup reached its conclusion on Monday morning, with the final matches played simultaneously. Already eliminated from the competition after suffering defeats in their first two matches against Japan (5-0) and Spain (5-0), Zambia exits the tournament with an impressive victory. It was their first and only win of the tournament, defeating Costa Rica (3-1).
Lushomo Mweemba (3rd), Barbra Banda (31st) with a penalty kick, and Racheal Kundananji (90+3) scored the three first-ever World Cup goals for their national team. Costa Rica, also eliminated before the match, managed to reduce the deficit with a goal from Melissa Herrera (48th). With this victory, Zambia finishes third in Group C, exiting the Australian and New Zealand tournament with honor. On the other hand, Costa Rica finishes last with zero points.
Japan crushes Spain and finishes 1st In the same Group C, Japan faced Spain, both nations already qualified, to compete for the top spot. To everyone’s surprise, Japan dominated the match with an impressive 4-0 victory. The goals of the game were scored by Miyazawa (12th, 40th), Ueki (29th), and Tanaka (83rd). As a result, Japan finishes first in their group and will face Norway in the round of 16. Meanwhile, Spain, finishing 2nd, will face Switzerland.
