Japan got their defence of the Asian Women's Cup underway with a 4-0 win over Vietnam in Jordan ©AFC

Japan made a resounding opening to their defence of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Asian Women’s Cup today as they beat Vietnam 4-0 in their first group match in Jordan.

The holders took just three minutes to open their account in Amman’s King Abdullah II Stadium through Kumi Yokoyama, and Emi Nakajima doubled that lead 14 minutes later.

Second half goals from Mana Iwabuchi after 57 minutes and Mina Tanaka after 66 minutes firmly established their team as early leaders of Group B.

They are two points clear of Australia and South Korea, who drew their opening match in the same stadium 0-0.

Australia drew 0-0 with South Korea in their opening group match at the Asian Women's Cup ©Getty Images
Australia drew 0-0 with South Korea in their opening group match at the Asian Women's Cup ©Getty Images

On Monday  the hosts, Jordan, will attempt to gain some momentum after their 2-1 opening Group A defeat by The Philippines as they take on Thailand, beaten 4-0 by China PR in their opening game.

China, meanwhile, will match their experience against a new young Philippines side that has not contested these finals in 15 years but is responding to the coaching of  Rabah Benlarbi.

The tournament offers places at next year's FIFA Women’s World Cup in France to the top five finishers.