Japan secured a spot in the AFC Asian Cup quarterfinals with a 3-1 victory over Bahrain, highlighted by goals from Ritsu Doan, Takefusa Kubo, and Ayase Ueda.
Japan advanced to the AFC Asian Cup quarterfinals with a 3-1 win over Bahrain here on Wednesday, while Iran edged Syria 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
Goals from Ritsu Doan, Takefusa Kubo and Ayase Ueda helped Hajime Moriyasu’s side outclass Bahrain, who had almost no chances except Ueda’s own goal after a goalline scramble.
Japan took the lead in the 31st minute when Seiya Maikuma’s shot from 25 yards hit the post and deflected to Doan, who stroke home in the box.
Japan doubled the lead just four minutes into the second half. Kubo gained possession in front of the Bahrain box and passed to Ueda. Hazza Ali tried to tackle the striker but only steered the ball to Kubo, who slotted past goalkeeper Lutfalla. Bahrain hardly had chances to threaten Japan’s goal, but Ueda and Suzuki’s collision caused an own goal when the striker attempted to head the ball off the goalline in the 64th minute. Kaoru Mitoma came off the bench along with Takumi Minamino four minutes later to make his debut in Doha. — Xinhua
