Colombia 2024: Japan Forward Sasai Reveals Key To Victory Over Falconets

2 weeks ago 10

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Japan forward Chinari Sasai has attributed the side’s victory over Nigeria to team work, reports Completesports.com.

The Young Nadeshiko defeated the West Africans 2-1 in their second round tie in Bogota on Friday morning.

Miyu Matsunaga’s header on 33 minutes was enough to send Japan to the break with a slim lead.

Sasai then set up Maya Hijikata for the second goal three minutes after the hour mark.

Olushola Shobowale did manage to pull one back for Nigeria in stoppage time but the 2018 champions held firm to secure a place in the quarter-finals.

Sasai said the Asians won together as a team.

“We knew that Nigeria is physically stronger and faster than us, but everyone was able to stay focused and score the first goal, and then the second. I’m very happy because this is a victory we won together as a team,” Sasai was quoted by FIFA.com.

Japan will face Spain in the quarter-finals on Sunday.

By Adeboye Amosu