Japan Women vs Uzbekistan Women: match preview on 20 September 2026

# Japan Women heavy favourites against Uzbekistan

Japan Women are strong favourites to beat Uzbekistan Women in their Asian Games opener at home on 20 September. The gap in quality is stark: Japan have won four of their last five matches with a goal difference of 42 across those games, while Uzbekistan have lost four of their five with a negative difference of 24.

Japan's attacking output has been relentless. They scored 145 goals in their last five matches while conceding 103, averaging 29 goals per game. Their most recent outing saw them dismantle Vietnam 40-14 at home on 19 September. That result alone demonstrates the level of dominance they bring to this competition.

Uzbekistan's record tells a different story entirely. In five matches spanning from December 2022 to September 2023, they managed only one victory against Thailand 40-28 away. Their other four results were defeats, including a heavy 16-42 loss to South Korea and a 33-37 home defeat to Kazakhstan. Their goals conceded (176) significantly outnumber their goals scored (152).

The standings reflect this disparity. Japan sit second with three points from one match, while Uzbekistan remain on zero points after no games played. The Japanese side have already demonstrated their capability at this tournament level with their victory over Vietnam.

Uzbekistan’s threat lies in time-wasting and absorbing pressure.