In the 1,000th match of the FIFA World Cup, Japan defeated Tunisia to edge closer to the knockout stage. This landmark game in Monterrey saw Japan make history at Monterrey Stadium on Saturday.
Keito Nakamura created the first goal by driving into the box and passing the ball to Daichi Kamada, who scored from close range. This was Kamada’s second goal of the tournament and the fastest goal Japan has scored in a World Cup.
Ayase Ueda increased the lead on the half-hour mark, making a powerful shot from the top of the box.
New Tunisia coach Herve Renard could not get his team to respond. Japan scored again when Ueda assisted Junya Ito, who netted the third goal midway through the second half. Ueda later scored his second goal to secure the victory.
Japan’s win is the largest by any nation in World Cup history. They now sit level with the Netherlands at the top of Group F, while Tunisia has been eliminated.
Key stat: Daichi Kamada’s goal in the fourth minute is the fastest scored by a Japanese player in World Cup history. The previous record was held by Shinji Kagawa, who scored in the sixth minute in 2018 against Colombia.
Michelob Ultra Superior Player of the Match: Ayase Ueda (Japan)
What they said:
“We prepared well and played aggressively. Our coaching staff clearly laid out our goals, which helped the players perform at their best. Many Japanese fans came to Monterrey, sang the national anthem with us, and cheered us on. Their support was a huge boost for us.” Hajime Moriyasu, Japan coach
Japan goals: Kamada (4), Ueda (31, 83), Junya Ito (69)
