FRANCE 3-1 JAPAN

Japan suffered a setback against FIFA Women's World Cup hosts France, falling to a 3-1 defeat at Stade de l'Abbé-Deschamps in Auxerre.

The loss is the second in a row for the Nadeshiko, who suffered a 3-0 defeat to France 2019 group stage rivals England in their previous match last month.

“2015 was a year with some regrets,” said Wu. “That year people learned that Team China was still young, but full of enthusiasm. After four years of effort, I hope this year we are to be recognised as a more mature, tactical and organised team.”

At just 26, Wu has immense responsibility on her shoulders as China look to go one step further than the team of 20 years ago, when a Sun Wen-led side narrowly lost out on penalties to the USA at the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup.

The defender said wearing the armband was something she found a little more difficult starting out, but has grown into the role, enjoying the responsibility of looking out for her ‘family’.

The top six remained unchanged, with Australia as Asia's best-ranked team after maintaining their position at sixth in the world. Ante Milicic's squad, are in Group C alongside Italy, Brazil and Jamaica for France 2019.

Japan, who are in Group D with England, Scotland and Argentina, moved up a notch to seventh, while DPR Korea, who will not play in France maintained at 11th in the world.

Yuka Momiki, who scored one goal and set up the remaining two, was the star of the show for the Asian champions, while newcomer Rikako Koboaysahi and Yui Hasegawa also got their names on the scoresheet to cap an impressive display

Japan's win takes them to four points from two matches, putting them in a position to win the tournament should they win in Tuesday's final match against England, who drew 2-2 with the United States in Saturday's later match.