HOUSTON, Feb 21, (V7N) – Mina Tanaka delivered a stellar performance, scoring twice as Japan dominated Australia with a 4-0 victory in the opening match of the SheBelieves Cup on Thursday, marking an ideal start for new head coach Nils Nielsen.

Japan asserted their authority from the outset, taking the lead in just the sixth minute. Fuka Nagano fired a low shot, which Tanaka cleverly redirected into the bottom corner to put her side ahead.

Tanaka struck again in the 32nd minute, capitalizing on Hikaru Kitagawa’s precise cross from the left. Taking advantage of unconvincing Australian defending, she slid in to finish and extend Japan’s lead.

The third goal highlighted Japan’s signature quick-passing approach. Tanaka turned provider, delivering a perfectly timed ball across the goal for Maika Hamano, who calmly slotted it home.

Australia struggled to compete under interim head coach Tom Sermanni, failing to match Japan’s pace and technical prowess.

Tanaka had an opportunity to complete her hat-trick but fired over from close range. However, Japan soon added a fourth goal, courtesy of a short corner routine. Kitagawa floated a cross into the box, where Moeka Minami rose to glance a header into the net.

Australia barely threatened throughout the match, with their best chance coming in the 87th minute when substitute Charlotte Grant struck the crossbar.

Later on Thursday, Emma Hayes' USA will face Colombia in the tournament’s second fixture.