Akane Shiga makes history against Team USA

Midway through the first period — at the 10:58 mark, to be precise — of the quarterfinal game between Team Japan and Team USA Akane Shiga made history.

Shiga found herself alone in the high slot after being set up beautifully by Haruka Toko. She ripped a shot on net and, somehow, it squeaked through the gear of veteran U.S. goaltender Alex Cavallini. Understandably, Team Japan exploded into celebration. History was made. It was Japan’s first goal against Team USA in Worlds competition.

🚨 JAPAN GOALLLLLL!!!!!!

An absolute ideal pass to Akane Shiga to put Japan on the board and cut the US's lead in half

USA 2 - Japan 1 pic.twitter.com/fNEomwpfT8

— The Ice Garden (@TheIceGarden) August 28, 2021

Then, Shiga did it again. With less than three minutes left in the opening period, Shiga one-timed a gorgeous pass from Suzuka Taka past Cavallini to deliver a statement to the Americans and the world.

🚨 JAPAN GOALLLLLL!!!!!!

Japan takes *full* advantage of a US change to get another 2-1 and Akane Shiga converts for her second goal of the game!!!

USA 5 - Japan 2 pic.twitter.com/jWI1CuiTii

— The Ice Garden (@TheIceGarden) August 28, 2021

I love how Smile Japan is showing that they have some bite. It's 5-2 after the first. A historic two-goal game from Akane Shiga and we're just getting started. pic.twitter.com/ULSnrYD1Ok

— Mike Murphy (@DigDeepBSB) August 28, 2021

Shiga now has three goals in the 2021 Worlds and entered today’s game as Japan’s leader in shots on goal (17). Toko, who set up the first goal, now has four primary assists in the tournament.

Although they entered the second period trailing by a score of 5-2, Shiga’s two-goal period will be an unblemished and much-celebrated moment in the history of Japanese hockey. Shiga and her teammates have shown Japan and the next generation of players that it can be done. A team that is celebrated for its defensive structure and goaltending can light the lamp playing against the very best in the world.