“I want to thank our players. They executed our training and game plan to perfection,” said Chang. “Indeed, Urawa is a very strong team – their technical awareness, overall ability, and individual skills are among the best. 

“So for us to advance today is truly a testament to our players’ efforts, especially in defence and counter-attacks, where we performed at our best."

Chang also acknowledged that luck was on his side, as they overcame a huge test to book a semi-final meeting with Ho Chi Minh City Women’s FC in May.

“Of course, luck also played a role. We have overcome this major challenge, and we hope to continue working hard in the upcoming matches.”

For Urawa, the defeat was a bitter pill to swallow with head coach Naoki Kusunose lamenting his team’s inability to convert dominance into goals.

“It’s extremely disappointing that we lost in a situation where we absolutely couldn’t afford to,” said Kusunose. “Our issue became clear once again – we dominate possession but struggle to break through in the final phase and finish."

“As for the penalty shootout, I take full responsibility for the order since I was the one who assigned the kickers. But even so, I truly appreciate the players who stepped up and took their shots with confidence. 

“That said, we should have settled the game before it even came to that.”