Overview
- Maika Hamano scored in the 17th minute at Stadium Australia to seal a 1-0 win for Nadeshiko Japan.
- Australia pressed late, with Alanna Kennedy’s stoppage‑time header saved by goalkeeper Ayaka Yamashita, but the equaliser never came.
- The final drew 74,397 fans, the largest attendance of the tournament and a landmark night for women’s football in Australia.
- Japan captured a third Asian Cup in the past four editions after reaching the final having scored 28 goals and conceded once.
- Sam Kerr led a seasoned Matildas lineup that fashioned chances for Caitlin Foord and Kaitlyn Torpey, yet composure in front of goal proved elusive.