Hijikata scored Japan’s third goal with a curling effort from inside the box but admitted that she was not completely satisfied with her performance.

“In every game, not scoring an extra goal weighs on me. But through each match, I aim to grow and learn,” said the Tokyo Verdy striker, who was named Player of the Match.

Australia fought back to level the tie, forcing head coach Kano Michihisa to rejig Japan’s tactics in the second half.

“Our style is to push forward and to fight aggressively and our hard work ultimately led to the goals in the second half.”

“We were very disappointed by our defeat to DPR Korea in the group stage and were determined to make up for it in the semi-finals. I want the entire team to taste the thrill of victory.”

Japan, six-time AFC U-19 Women’s Championship winners, have the perfect chance to erase the defeat to DPR Korea when they meet them in the final on Saturday.