Yuya Osako scored the game-winning goal 73rd minute to carry Japan to a 2-1 triumph over Colombia on Tuesday in their World Cup group stage clash at Mordovia Arena. Osako highlighted Japan's second-half dominance with a header from a set-piece in the 73rd minute to give his team three points in Group H.
With the win, Japan became the first Asian squad to beat a South American side in the history of the World Cup. Also, Osako's goal was the eighth header scored in the 2018 World Cup.
Japan Capitalized On Early Red Card
Japan also capitalized on the absence of defender Carlos Sanchez, who suffered the second-fastest dismissal in World Cup history. Sanchez was issued a red card three minutes into the game for handball.
Japan took the lead in the sixth minute behind a penalty kick by Shinji Kagawa. However, Colombia captain Radamel Falcao earned a free kick, which Juan Quintero used to tie the game before the halftime break. With his efforts, Quintero became the first Colombian player in history to score at two World Cups.
In the second half, Japan stepped up its attack against Colombia with a series of scoring chances. In the 73rd minute, Japan finally got the go-ahead goal that it wanted via a header by Osako.
In desperation, Colombia inserted midfielder James Rodriguez and Carlos Bacca into the game. However, Colombia's late push failed to provide any scoring opportunity, allowing Japan to take home three points. With the win, Japan is now tied with Senegal in Group H with three points each.
Japan Credits Hard Work For Victory
In his first competitive game at the helm, Japan coach Akira Nishino credits the team's hard work and experience for its first victory in the World Cup.
"We finished the first match with the best possible result, which I think now hands us a good advantage," said Nishino, whose team will next face Senegal on June 24. Nishino said Japan will focus on showing its strength against Senegal, a 2-1 winner over Poland.
Japanese Fans Cleaned The Mess After The Game
Japanese fans impressed many World Cup fans as they cleaned up their rows and seats before leaving the stadium. Using large garbage bags, Japanese fans showed their good manners by sifting through their rows to pick up garbage before leaving.
According to Japan-based football journalist Scott McIntyre, the move was not just part of football culture but of Japanese culture as well.
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