Japan too good for Iraq

Jan 16, 2015 - 11:38 AM Defending champions Japan provided a timely reminder of why they are the raging Asian Cup favourites with a smooth 1-0 victory over Iraq on Friday night in Brisbane.

Keisuke Honda's first-half penalty was all that separated the two sides on the scoreboard, but there was a significant gulf of quality on the pitch and only wasteful finishing kept the margin from blowing out further.

The 22,941 fans on hand at Suncorp Stadium were treated to some scintillating play from Japan, but their excitement dovetailed into frustration at times as the Samurai Blue failed to take advantage of the multitude of chances they created.

Allegations of match-fixing against Javier Aguirre flared up this week and reports emerged earlier on Friday that the Japan coach would be sacked at the conclusion of the tournament.

But they looked a team in complete harmony as they burst out of the gates, running rings around Iraq.

There were backheels, nutmegs and one-twos aplenty as Keisuke Honda and Shinji Kagawa revelled in the space they were afforded by the Lions of Mesopotamia - and their early exploits generated at least four clear-cut opportunities.

The one that did hit the back of the net was a spot kick, awarded in the 22nd minute when Honda was sandwiched in clattering tackles from Ali Adnan Kadhim and Saad Abdulameer.

Honda duly converted, but the AC Milan star will be kicking himself after hitting the woodwork three times in the match.

Kagawa, too, had several chances to score - including one shot that was saved from point-blank range just seconds before Honda's penalty was given.

Iraq, the 2007 Asian Cup champions, worked their way back into the contest and put together some nice passages of play - particularly at the start of the second half - but did not do enough to trouble an assured Samurai Blue outfit.

Despite the victory, Japan have not yet officially sealed safe passage to the tournament's next stage, although a quarter-final appearance is a mere formality.

They require just one point from their final Group D clash with Jordan on Tuesday, while Iraq should also qualify as they face Palestine, who have been soundly beaten in their two games.

Aguirre tried to play down his side's profligacy, crediting Iraq for keeping them to just the one goal.

"Iraq defended well and we could not penetrate," he said.

"We had at least two or three chances to make a difference but we couldn't score.

"But our rhythm of attack (was pleasing), we played with one or two touches, effective play."

Iraq coach Radhi Shenaishel admitted his side was a long way from matching Japan for sharpness.

"Our forwards haven't played for a long period of time. They haven't reached their level where they can play a full match," he said.

"Look at Honda, he comes from the Italian league straight to the national team - he's ready and he produces.

"We've got players who have not played from the last Gulf Cup."

Source: AAP