| The National

SHARJAH // Dmitri Khomukha, the Russia coach, has tipped Japan for success after his European champions were convincingly outplayed in their first outing of the Fifa Under 17 World Cup on Friday.

The fact the Russians were only beaten by a lone, eye-catching strike from distance by Kosei Uryu tells little of the story.

While still part of the Soviet Union, Russia won this competition the last time they were at the finals.

That was in 1987, though, and the advance that Japanese football has made in the intervening 26 years has been marked, on this evidence.

The Asian side were wholly dominant at Sharjah Stadium.

“Even before the tournament, we knew Japan were playing good combination, attacking football,” Khomukha said. “This result just goes to show such a style of play can lead to success.

“Both teams struggled to settle a bit at the start, but Japan controlled the ball perfectly from the start and we didn’t find it easy to get control back from them.”

Despite only managing a little over a third of possession over the course of the game, the Russians still had chances to claim a draw late in the second half.

The Japanese defence – and their goalkeeper, Teimosii Shiraoka – betrayed signs of nerves.

However, they held on for a win, which puts them in a strong position to top the group, with less-regarded sides in Tunisia and Venezuela still to play.

“We knew the Japan team were very strong, and we managed lots of attempts to score a goal, but we couldn’t succeed,” Khomukha said.

“I think this match was a good one to watch for the spectators, as both teams played attacking football. Unfortunately we just could not get that goal.”

Hirofumi Yoshitake thinks his Japan side need to improve on their effectiveness in the final third of the field if they are to achieve anything significant at this competition.

“This was a tough game against the European champions, so we are happy to get a win,” said the Japan coach.

“Our ball retention was good, but the quality we showed in front of goal was less so. We need to improve on that.”

pradley@thenational.ae

For more Fifa Under 17 World Cup news visit our topic page

Download the World Cup wall chart – http://thenational.ae/sport/fifa-under-17-world-cup/fifa-under-17-world-cup-matches-venues-and-ticketing

Japan leaves coach of European champions impressed after victory in group opener.