FIFA Women's World Cup
The 2011 world champions took the lead through Hinata Miyazawa two minutes before the break and then turned on the style in the second half with four more goals to surge to the top of the Group C standings with Ikeda saying the three points were a must in their bid to advance to the knockout stage.
"It was our first match and we wanted to make sure we got the three points, although we are happy with the five goals," said Ikeda.
"More importantly for us, the goals were not the only thing that we did well as every player - including our goalkeeper - remained focused throughout the match."
Japan's 2011 triumph was followed by a runners-up finish in 2015, but elimination in the Round of 16 four years ago means the current squad have something to prove.
"We were champions in 2011 and we want to scale those heights again. The players are determined to shine and they showed today they are developing well.
"How we played was based on the analysis of the opponents. I am also happy that the players were able to utilise their capabilities to the maximum
"Having reached our target against Zambia, the focus now is on another three points against Costa Rica (on Wednesday).
"We have to recuperate as they will have the advantage of having had an additional day of rest but we will be ready."
Photo: AFP
Related News
- FIFA Women's World Cup
Group C: Dominant Japan overwhelm debutants Zambia
- FIFA Women's World Cup
Mai: Vietnam players did their best
- FIFA Women's World Cup
Group D: China PR suffer late heartbreak against Denmark
- FIFA Women's World Cup
Stajcic hails resilient Filipinas
- FIFA Women's World Cup
Gustavsson applauds gritty Matildas
Item 1 of 5