Australia were the only team to advance to the knockout stage with a perfect record of three wins and head coach Leah Blayney expects the Young Matildas to continue to impress.

“We are looking forward to facing Japan and to play and represent Australia in the semi-final of the AFC Women’s U20 Asian Cup is a huge honour and we’re relishing the opportunity,” said Blayney.

“We did our due diligence on Japan and we are well aware of what their strengths are. We have watched them play and we’re confident of putting forth our game plan.”

“Japan are tactically flexible and that’s why they were the silver medallists at the FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup in 2022.

“We have been consistent throughout the competition and we are building the squad for the future. We would also need to evolve and be flexible in our tactical abilities and I’m proud of what we have achieved so far.”

Zara Kruger, who scored her first goal against Chinese Taipei in the group stage, said Australia are well-prepared to face the six-time AFC U-19 Women’s Championship winners.

“All the girls are really excited and ready to go,” said Kruger. We have a strong squad here in Uzbekistan. We have been playing well across the three match days and can’t wait for the opportunity to face Japan.

“It was a good feeling to score the goal in our previous game against Chinese Taipei. If given a chance, everyone is looking forward to scoring.”

Japan tactician Kano Michihisa, while expecting a tough challenge, was equally confident of his team’s chances.

“Tomorrow’s game against Australia will be tough but we have been preparing the team since 2023,” said Michihisa. “Our goal is to win the match and all the players are prepared.”

“Our 1-0 defeat against DPR Korea (in the group stage) has given us the hunger and desire to win. The players know what is expected of them and we want nothing more than to reach the final.

“We know they have a physical advantage and most of their players play abroad but that’s not going to be a problem for us.”

Suzu Amano, who scored a spectacular free-kick against China PR on Matchday Two, was equally confident of Japan’s ability to see off Australia.

“I want everyone in the team to give everything for tomorrow’s game and fight for the win. We will come in with a strong mentality and the whole team is relaxed and ready to perform their best.”