Japan have got the defence of their title off to a good start with an edgy 1-0 win over Switzerland in the Women's World Cup.

Switzerland made a fast start and drew the first save of the match as Ramona Bachmann was played through by Erina Yamane, but the keeper smothered her first-time shot.

However, Japan were awarded a penalty 10 minutes later as Gaelle Thalmann collided with Kozue Ando in the air, before Aya Miyama coolly slotted the ball into the bottom corner.

Bachmann almost levelled the scores just before the break, but her whipped shot marginally went past the post.

The 24-year-old continued to be Switzerland's main threat after the break as she waltzed through several tackles on her way into the box, before slipping at the vital moment.

Japan came close to doubling their lead minutes later but Yuika Sugasawa's scuffed effort flicked the outside of the post.

Switzerland continued to push forward, but Bachmann wasted their best chance in injury time when she blazed over the bar from the edge of the box.

Written by
Charlie Bennett