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Japan beat Australia through penalty shootout to reach Asian Cup
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11:35, July 22, 2007 |
Defending Champions Japan frustrated pre-tournament favourites Australia 5-4 (regular time 1-1) after the penalty shootout to reach the last four in the most heavyweight clash of the ongoing AFC Asian Cup up to now here on Saturday.
In-form keeper Yoshikatsu Kawaguchi made two crucial saves in the shootout to deny Harry Kewell and Lucas Neill's first two kicks, before veteran defender Yuji Nakazawa converted in the fifth one calmly to get
the victory.
Alaves hitman John Aloisi ghosted in the far post before poking in substitute Harry Kewell's low corner unerringly on 69 minutes.
Frankfort striker Naohiro Takahara levelled for Japan minutes later, he rounded his marker inside the box with a quick cut and drilled into the net with a left-foot strike.
The Socceroos had to struggle with 10 men in the 75th minute when midfielder Vincenzo Grella was sent off directly by the referee with a purposely blow on Takahara's head.
Japan dominated the extra time and squandered several great chances to score in the last 10 minutes.
Source: Xinhua
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