KOBE, Japan (March 1, 2026) (Interstat) — Japan defeated Nigeria 2-1 in a women’s international friendly Sunday at NOEVIR Stadium Kobe. Striker Mina Tanaka scored twice in a four-minute span late in the second half to secure the victory for the host nation.

Tanaka broke a scoreless deadlock in the 64th minute and added her second goal in the 68th. Nigeria found a late consolation goal, but its comeback effort fell short. The match, organized by Friendlies Women in World, featured three yellow cards.

The result improved Japan’s record in this competition to one win, one loss and one draw. Nigeria remained winless in the competition, now with three losses and a draw. The final score matched the projection by Interstat’s game simulator, which heavily favored Japan pre-match. Japan next plays at Denmark on March 8.