Canada smothered Japan, 20-5, in its first game at The World Games 2025 in Chengdu, China in the women’s sixes competition.
Japan initially looked to have some attacking momentum in the first quarter with three goals, but Canada locked its opponent down the rest of the way, allowing just two in the final three quarters.
“We were most pleased with how we all played together, all of our defensive shifts were really on point and moving together, which is obviously hard when you’re coming in as a new team and this is our first full game together,” said Annabel Child.
Canada did score seven goals itself in the first frame with its opening burst of energy, keyed by clever passing sequences. It was able to cruise the rest of the way with another five goals in the second quarter and four apiece in the final two periods.
Canada’s attacking cast spread the goal scoring with three players recording hat tricks in Erica Evans, Dylana Williams and Child, who also added three assists.
Lauren Spence turned in a strong performance in net, making nine saves on 14 shots faced.
Canada’s defense held Japan to just 23 shots and 14 on goal in 32 minutes of action.
Nozomi Tanaka scored the first goal of the game for Japan.
Canada improved to 1-0 in Pool A and will face Great Britain in the opener on day two at 9 a.m. local time. Japan will look to bounce back against China at 2:30 p.m.
Gallery
Just knowing each other tendencies, and reading off each other and always moving your feet. If you’re a threat with the ball and your teammates are moving a lot, then there’s gonna be something open.
Annabel Child
3 goals, 3 assists
