Japan beat Uzbekistan

Spirited Japan began its campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Uzbekistan in the inaugural Group IV league match in the Sahara Cup Millennium football tournament at the Salt Lake stadium in Calcutta on Wednesday.

Playing with a great deal of confidence, the young Japanese team shot into the lead through striker Ohta Keisuke a minute before the lemon break. The other striker Masaki Fukai completed the tally three minutes before the long whistle.

It was a convincing performance from the Japanese who enjoyed territorial advantage for most part of the proceedings. Though the Uzbeks did manage to come close to the rival goalmouth, they failed to get their act together inside the box.

After making a few exploratory raids on the Uzbek citadel, the Japanese managed to score when Ohta Keusuke slotted home from inside the box with none of the defenders in position.

The goal came after the hardworking Masaki Fukai's right footer hit the crosspiece. Off the rebound, Ohta showed fine relfexes in taking a shot, which gave Uzbek goalkeeper Oleg Kaharov no chance whatsoever.

The Uzbeks played their hearts out after the breather, but could not capitalise on the chances that came their way.

The Japanese consolidated their position three minutes before the final whistle when Fukai deflected a free-kick from captain Tadaaki Hirakawa much to the delight of his teammates.