Japan back to winning ways

Japan continued their build up to the World Cup with a 2-0 convincing win over Finland in Shizuoka.

Injury-plagued striker Kubo, who made his long-awaited international comeback against the United States, brought the game to life when he prodded home Ogasawara’s cross for his first Japan goal since June 2004.

And man of the match Ogasawara scored with a fantastic effort from inside his own half to complete Japan’s first win in World Cup year. His goal brings back memories of Beckham’s famous long-range strike for Manchester United against Wimbledon in 1996-97 season.

Having spotted Finland goalkeeper Mikko Kaven off his line, the pint-sized midfielder let fly a screamer of a shot that found its way into Finland’s net.

Coach Zico made three changes to the team that lost to the USA. Seiichiro Maki who opened his account in the 3-2 loss to the Americans started up front alongside the fit-again Kubo in a 3-5-2 shape. Also, Keisuke Tsuboi replaced Makoto Tanaka and Shinji Murai came in for Brazilian born winger Alessandro Santos.

Japan now begin their defense of the Asian Cup with a home qualifier against India on Wednesday and then travel to Germany to play a friendly against Bosnia-Herzegovina on Feb. 28.