#dominant-victory

#dominant-victory

Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Ohtani's grand slam homer set the tone as Japan scored 10 runs in the second inning alone in front of around 42,000 fans at the Tokyo Dome. Their dominance meant the game was cut short after seven innings under the so-called mercy rule. The result gave Japan a dream start to the tournament as they go in search of a record-extending fourth title.

Vivien Endemann got things going right away in the sixth minute with a clever off-the-shoulder run that Linda Dallmann spotted from midfield. The winger, operating on the accustomed flank of the injured Klara Bühl, found herself all alone in the box with defenders trailing behind and finished calmly with a left-foot slotted ball through the keeper's legs.