Japan has lined up an exciting showdown against Spain in the quarter-finals of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup after defeating Nigeria 2-1 in a rainy Bogota.

The 2018 champions came out strong from the start, and after several near misses, they finally broke the deadlock in the 33rd minute.

Rihona Ujihara delivered a perfect cross that an unmarked Miyu Matsunaga headed in at the back post.

Nigeria's best opportunity came shortly after when Rofiat Imuran forced a great save from keeper Akane Okuma, but Japan went into halftime with the lead, just like in every match so far in Colombia 2024.

Maya Hijikata extended the lead in the second half, finishing off a cross from substitute Chinari Sasai, which also put her in a tie for the top spot in the Adidas Golden Boot race alongside Brazil’s Vendito.

Although Olushola Shobowale managed to score for Nigeria in stoppage time, they couldn't find an equalizer, and Japan held on for the 2-1 victory, setting up a thrilling quarter-final rematch with Spain from the 2022 final.