The, 2011 FIFA World Cup champions Japan were unable to make the breakthrough against a stubborn South Korea side, who have not won any of their last four matches in all competitions, and could only come away with a 0-0 draw.

Japan’s slip-up allowed Australia to capitalise and go top of Group B thanks to an 8-0 thrashing of 2014 hosts Vietnam in the later match at the Amman International Stadium.

Kyah Simon opened the scoring for the Australians after eight minutes before Alanna Kennedy, Chloe Logarzo, Emily van Egmond and Sam Kerr scored goals of their own to give their side an unassailable 5-0 lead at half-time.

Kerr notched her second of the match six minutes after the restart before an unfortunate own goal by Nguyen Thi Tuyet Dung made in 7-0.

Hayley Raso scored Australia’s eighth and final goal 15 minutes from time.

This result means Australia now sit on top of Group B with four points, ahead of Japan on goal difference, with South Korea in third on two points.

Japan and Australia are due to face each other on Friday (April 13) in a match which will decide the group winner.

Whoever loses risks being pipped to a place at the World Cup in France next year by South Korea if they beat Vietnam in their match.

A draw may not be enough for either side if South Korea beat Vietnam by four goals or more.

There are no matches tomorrow but action is due to recommence on Thursday (April 12).

It will feature the final games in Group A, which see already-eliminated hosts Jordan take on China, who have already qualified for France 2019, while Thailand take on the Philippines.