World Cup 2018: Japan beat 10-men Colombia in trilling contest

Shinji Kagawa’s early penalty and Osako’s 72^nd minute header handed Japan famous victory over Colombia in group H clash of the FIFA World Cup 2018.

Just on the 2^nd minute of the game Colombia were down to ten men after a break from Japan.

Their striker was clean through on goal, David Ospina made an excellent save. The ball fell to Shinji Kagawa who volleyed it, and Carlos Sanchez blocked with his hand.

Kagawa without any hesitation put the ball in the net and gave Japan 1-0 lead over the South American side.

Colombia despite a man down, responded with Quintero’s calculated free kick from outside the box which burst into Japan’s net and made the game level at the half time thanks to goal line technology.

As second half went under way, Japan took full advantage of 10-men Colombia with some blistering attacks.

With dominating ball possession in the game, Japan finally managed to score another goal as Osako headed the ball into the net in 72^nd minute of the game and gave his side 2-1 lead which stayed till the end.

With this victory, Japan became the first Asian side to beat a South American team at the FIFA World Cup.