By Debby von Winckelmann
Defending champion Japan became the first country to reach the knockout stage after defeating Cameroon 2-1 on Friday in Vancouver.
Japan scored early, with Nahomi Kawasumi sending a ball into the box in the 6th minute, which Aya Sameshima tapped in.
Japan doubled its lead in the 17th minute, when Aya Miyama sent a cross onto the head of Yuika Sugasawa.
Cameroon was able to hold and outshot Japan, 20 to 1, but was unable to find the net until the 90th minute when Ajara Nchout scored to close Japan’s lead to 2-1.
Ajara Nchout scored for Cameroon in the 90th minute.
Cameroon had a chance to equalize in stoppage time, but Gaelle Enganamouit sent her header wide.
Japan has six points in Group C and closes out group play against Ecuador on Tuesday. Cameroon and Switzerland both have three points and will face each other for their final match in group play on Tuesday.
