Japan thrash Spain 4-0 in Women's World Cup warning

Japan’s three first-half attempts resulted in three blistering goals as their speedy front line took advantage of a disorganised Spanish defence missing injured captain Ivana Andres.

Hinata Miyazawa scored twice and set up another as Japan stunned Spain 4-0 at the Women's World Cup on Monday to set up a clash with Norway in the knockout stage.

The Japanese delivered a lesson in clinical counter-attacking and led 3-0 at half-time to issue a World Cup warning against one of the title favourites.

The 2011 champions Japan topped the group to play another former winner in Norway while Spain will face Switzerland in the last 16.

Miyazawa's brace took her to four goals for the tournament while Riko Ueki and Mina Tanaka bagged the others for a hugely impressive Japan.

Boasting a host of European club stars, Spain dominated possession in front of a crowd of 20,957 in Wellington.

But they didn't create a single clear chance as Japan soaked up pressure and broke with pace, with lethal effect.

It was a tactical masterclass from Japan coach Futoshi Ikeda, whose team denied space and time to Barcelona stars Alexia Putellas and Aitana Bonmati.