Australia advanced to the 2007 women's World Cup in China after a convincing 2-0 victory over Japan in the Asian Cup semi-final at Hindmarsh Stadium.

The Matildas created their own slice of history by becoming the first Australian team to qualify for a World Cup via Asia, and did so with an organised, committed effort that was helped by a nightmarish evening for Japanese goalkeeper Miho Fukumoto.

Striker Caitlin Munoz had put Australia ahead within 10 minutes, but the result was sealed when Joanne Peters scored in the shadows of half-time, firing home after Fukumoto had inexplicably grassed a corner from Collette McCallum.

A scoreless second half made for jubilant scenes on the pitch when the final whistle blew.

"I don't think I've ever been as proud of a team as I am of this team tonight," coach Tom Sermanni said.

"I just thought the character and discipline of the players and the way we defended was unbelievable.

"The effect (qualification) will have on our team is enormous, because they'll now have belief that they can win against teams ranked higher, teams that are technically among the best and look like they belong."

Beginning under the gaze of a wintry sun, the semi-final immediately exhibited a level of urgency above what was seen during the group games.

The Japanese showed plenty of skill on the ball, and threatened to get in behind the Australians on a few occasions early.

However the Matildas also had their share of attacks, and on nine minutes they went ahead.

Sally Shipard found herself in possession at the top of the box, and drove the ball into the area where it was placed adroitly into the top corner by Munoz's first time effort.

Fukumoto was helpless to stop it, but two minutes later she dropped a regulation cross, allowing an open sight of goal that was squandered by Shipard.

The teams traded blows thereafter, Japan going close when defender Kyoko Yano headed fractionally wide from a 15th minute corner and also threatening on the counter-attack.

Australia bided its time, held together expertly in defence by captain Cheryl Salisbury, and made a few aggressive forays near half-time.

Sarah Walsh won a corner with one of these attacks in the final minute of the half, and McCallum's resultant cross swung unerringly to Fukumoto, who promptly spilled it.Seconds later it was bundled into the net by Peters, to put Australia within touching distance of the World Cup at the break.

Happy with their lead, the Australians were content to defend in numbers and respond on the break, something they very nearly accomplished when Shipard headed into the crossbar after Walsh had set off on a swift 59th minute run.

Japan had plenty of territory but failed to craft many genuine opportunities, leaving the Australians to bask in the achievement of qualification.

Still to concede a goal in the tournament, they will contest the Asian Cup final on Sunday against either China or North Korea.

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