Japan's bid for a medal in women's hockey got off to a slow start with a 1-0 loss to Sweden in their opening preliminary-round game at Shayba Arena on Sunday.
Sweden scored the game's only goal in the opening period on a power play by forward Jenni Asserholt in a defensive battle. Sweden goalie Valentine Wallner stopped 19 shots in the victory.
With 7 minutes and 28 seconds left in the first period, defenseman Ayaka Toko was sent to the penalty box for tripping. Sweden then wasted little time capitalizing on the opportunity, with defenseman Emma Eliasson firing a slap shot from the point that was deflected by Asserholt past Japan goalie Nana Fujimoto.