OITA, Japan: Japan drew with Venezuela 1-1 in a home friendly on Friday with defender Hiroki Sakai netting his first goal for the Blue Samurai, who stay undefeated under their new coach.
The draw in Oita came as Japan are gearing towards an attempt at a record-extending fifth title in the Asian Cup starting in January.Sakai scored a 39-minute opener for Japan as he fired a volley following Shoya Nakajima’s precise free-kick. It was his first goal for the national team on his 49th international.
In the second half, midfielder Tomas Rincon netted an equaliser for Venezuela from the penalty spot after a foul in the box by Sakai.The Blue Samurai nipped at the South Americans’ heels and Maya Yoshida’s header squeezed the ball into the goal but it was disallowed for offside, silencing the 33,000 local fans. Japan made it three wins and one draw from Hajime Moriyasu’s first four games following their surprise run to the last 16 of the World Cup under Akira Nishino. “Our players made the best preparations and won the opener,” Moriyasu said.
Paris St Germain coach Luis Enrique after winning match against Toulouse in the Ligue 1 on May 13, 2024. —...
Will Zalatoris of the U.S. chips onto the green on the 13th hole during the second round at Augusta National Golf...
The napkin was signed in December 2000 to bring Messi to Spain. — ReutersLONDON: The napkin on which Barcelona...
Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi controls the ball in the first half against CF Montreal at Stade Saputo on May...
Manchester City's Phil Foden celebrates scoring their second goal in a Premier League match against Brighton & Hove...
Barcelona coach Xavi during the press conference in Barcelona, Spain on May 18, 2024. — ReutersMADRID: Barcelona...