Iwabuchi scores in 87th minute, lifting Japan to World Cup semis with 1-0 win over Australia

Australia's Emily van Egmond heads a ball during first half FIFA Women's World Cup quarter-final soccer action against Japan in Edmonton, Alta., Saturday, June 27, 2015. (Jeff McIntosh/The Canadian Press via AP) MANDATORY CREDIT (The Associated Press)

Japan's Shinobu Ohno (11) is challenged by Australia's Elise Kellond-Knight, rear right, as Alanna Kennedy (14) looks on during first half FIFA Women's World Cup quarter-final soccer action in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Saturday, June 27, 2015. (Jeff McIntosh/The Canadian Press via AP) MANDATORY CREDIT (The Associated Press)

EDMONTON, Alberta – Mana Iwabuchi scored during a scramble in front in the 87th minute and defending champion Japan beat Australia 1-0 on Saturday in the Women's World Cup quarterfinals.

The goal came after Japan spent much of the second half generating a majority of the pressure in the Australian end. Aya Miyama's corner kick from the left corner was blocked in the penalty area, but the ball bounced directly to Azusa Iwashimizu, who got off a hard shot at the net.

The shot was blocked by goalkeeper Lydia Williams, and the ball squirted to left, where Iwabuchi kicked it into the open side. Iwabuchi had fresh legs after subbing in at the 72nd minute in place of Shinobu Ohno.

Japan will face England or Canada in the semifinals in Edmonton on Wednesday.