Russia FIFA 2018 World Cup: Japan Defeats Colombia

Japan took the lead through early penalty, with Colombian Carlos Sanchez given Red Card in the 6th minute.

Colombia sensationally equalised in the 39th minute with Quintero firing a low free-kick.

The Japanese wall had leaped haven anticipated that he would try and curl the shot high inside the near post.

Instead he went low and the ball crossed the line just before Kawashima could scramble across.

It was a tough start for Jose Pekerman’s men.

The plan for the game changed after that red card for Carlos Sanchez – the most important cog in the Colombia  midfield – and an early goal from Japan.

Colombia never gave up, and tried to generate some offensive plays with Cuadrado, Quintero and Izquierdo in the first half.

Even with James coming on as a sub in the second half, Los Cafeteros still struggled to reach Japan’s defensive third.

Japan, on the other hand, were constantly pressing and found spaces between a backline that was debuting today.

After holding off a handful of final attacks from Colombia, Japan get their revenge for that heavy defeat four years ago in Brazil.

Samurai Blue showed true fighting spirit during the game, and the tactics of Nishino worked almost perfectly, albeit aided by the red card.

Osako’s goal on 73 minutes proved to be the winner against a ten-man Colombia, as an Asian nation completes a first-ever win against a South American opponent in 19 attempts.

Budweiser Man of the Match Yuya Osako

“To score a goal in the World Cup has been a dream for me since I was little, so I am extremely happy,” said the Budweiser Man of the Match Yuya Osako.

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