Match Report
Australia's final warm-up game ahead of Tokyo 2020 has ended in a 1-0 loss to host nation Japan at Sanga Stadium in Kyoto.
A lone Mana Iwabuchi penalty was enough for Nadeshiko to secure the win. Matildas head coach Tony Gustavsson deployed an attacking lineup in the first half.
A strong defensive block from the hosts was difficult to break down, but Australia created a few chances.
Caitlin Foord's off-balance shot in the 20th minute was easily collected by Ayaka Yamashita in the Japan goal.
While Sam Kerr broke down the left wing and her cross was put into a dangerous area but couldn't be turned in by Foord or Kyah Simon.
Nadeshiko produced the best chances of the first half with Teagan Micah in her second start for the national side pulling off some magnificent saves.
A shot from Yuzuho Shiokoshi was claimed calmly while a long range Yuika Sugasawa shot saw Micah reach out a hand while she was falling to keep the ball out of the back of the net.
