HO CHI MINH CITY – Reigning World Cup champion Japan thrashed Jordan 7-0 Sunday to book a spot in the semifinals at the Women’s Asian Cup and an automatic berth at next year’s World Cup in Canada.

Midfielders Emi Nakajima and Mizuho Sakaguchi both scored a brace and Japan, which led 2-0 at halftime at Binh Duong Stadium, piled on five goals after the break to demoralize Jordan in their final match of Group A.

“The main point is we have booked a spot in the World Cup. We’ll aim for the title from now,” said Japan coach Norio Sasaki. “Now we want to continue to keep in good form for our next match,” he said.

Nadeshiko Japan, which is 2-0 with one draw, improved to seven points and is assured of at least second place in Group A. Japan will appear in its seventh consecutive World Cup.