South Africa - page 609

Winner: Japan
Score: Japan(1) vs Cameroon(0)
39′ Keisuke Honda (Japan)

Recap

Japan coach Takeshi Okada received so much bad press and pressure for his resignation given his decision on the team lineup to leave off more high profile players in key positions and build a team lineup not accepted by the Japanese people. Japan has never won on foreign and people are skeptic of their ability to provide a run for the money of their opponents. I myself never expected that Japan are going to the FIFA World Cup; but I am rooting for them against Cameroon as I am an Asian.

Cameroon was favored to win not only because their are an African Nation but because they have one of the best African players in Samuel Eto.

Samuel Eto was shutdown as Japan were like flies on defense closing down passing lanes, challenging in droves to stop Cameroon and Samuel Eto to go into a rhythm. The only brilliance Samuel showed was when he blew past three guys by the corner flag and setup Choupo Moting for a good shot to the goal.

Japan’s goal came in the 39th minute when Keisuke Honda shot a short range left side goal.

Key Takeaway

Japan’s reputation if any at all on international stage is a grey area given that the Asian country has never won on foreign soil. Their win puts them on top of Group E alongside Netherlands. Their next opponent is Denmark who lost to the Dutchmen which means Japan can win the game and could go on the next round. Japan coach Takeshi Okada should be a happy camper.

FIFA World Cup Shopping – Japan

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FIFA World Cup Shopping – Cameroon

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