Players who defeated Poland to secure a spot in the Best 8. We sincerely appreciate your continued support of our association. The Women's Junior Japan National Team (U-20), participating in the "25th Women's Junior World Championship" held in China from June 24th, played their Main Round Match 2 against Poland at 16:15 (17:15 Japan time) on June 30th, winning 22-18. At this point, Japan has secured at least second place in Main Round Group 4, clinching a spot in the Best 8. - Main Round Match 2 Japan 22 (13-10, 9-8) 18 Poland [First Half] Taking the lead with a strong start In the first half, Japan got off to a good start with three consecutive goals from Futaba Ikeda. They continued to score at a good pace with cut-in shots from Yume Matsumoto and Wakana Kita, taking a 7-point lead at 9-2 in the 12th minute. Poland, employing a 7-on-6 attack, gradually closed the gap, and Japan's flow faltered due to some errors. However, a solid defense centered around goalkeeper Hana Ozaki tightened up at crucial moments. Minimizing the damage, they capitalized on limited chances with side shots from Airi Jinno and cut-in shots from Haruna Samo, ending the first half with a 3-point lead at 13-10. [Second Half] Overcoming tough periods to secure victory In the second half, Japan conceded three consecutive goals at the start, allowing Poland to tie the score at 13-13. However, they rallied without losing spirit, scoring three consecutive goals twice with 7-meter throws from Haruna Samo and cut-in shots from Kita. In the 16th minute, they regained a 5-point lead at 19-14. During a difficult period where they had a player in the penalty box, they managed to hold onto their lead, largely thanks to goalkeeper Ozaki. They defeated Poland by 4 points, 22-18. Ozaki, who recorded a save rate of over 40% in this match and was instrumental in the victory, was selected as Player of the Match. ◇ Japan's Goal Scorers and Goalkeeper Saves 5 goals: #13 Futaba Ikeda 4 goals: #6 Haruna Samo 3 goal