Yuika Sugasawa (C) of Japan celebrates scoring during the group D match between Japan and Scotland at the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup in Rennes, France, June 14, 2019. (Xinhua/Ding Xu)
RENNES, France, June 14 (Xinhua) -- Japan snatched their first win in 2019 Women's World Cup here on Friday after a 2-1 victory over Scotland.
Japan, the 2011 Champions played out a goalless draw with Argentina in the first round while Scotland suffered a 2-1 defeat to England.
Japan dominated the first half, surging into a 2-0 lead before the break, While Scotland showed a fighting spirit and scored a consolation goal.
Japan pressed aggressively right from the start and broke the deadlock in the 23rd minute, Mana Iwabuchi unleashed a missile into the net from the edge of the box.
The Asian side were awarded a penalty in the 36th minute while Yuika Sugasawa were tripped down by Rachel Corsie in the box. Sugasawa kept her cool to convert it.
Hina Sugita almost added the third in the stoppage time yet her attempt rattled the woodwork.
Scotland had a better performance in the second half and created several chances but couldn't find the net until the 89th minute as they capitalized Japan's wayward pass and Lana Clelland pulled one goal back, but it was too late.
Japan provisionally lead Group D with 4 points and Scotland sit bottom.
