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January 15, 2024

Minamino’s Double Guides Japan to Victory in Asian Cup Opener Against Vietnam – J League

Credits to J League Image Gallery

Japan kicked off its 2023 AFC Asian Cup campaign with a commanding performance, securing a valuable three-point victory against Vietnam with a final score of 4-2. This win highlights their skill and determination and sets a positive tone for their pursuit of success in the tournament.

Takumi Minamino, who developed his skills at Cerezo Osaka and has made a name for himself in European football for nearly a decade, played a pivotal role in the match by leading the charge with two impressive goals. His experience and talent were evident as he showcased his scoring ability, significantly contributing to his team’s success on the field.

Keito Nakamura, a talented former player for Gamba Osaka, and Ayase Ueda, who previously shone as a critical figure for Kashima Antlers, made significant contributions by scoring a goal each. Their efforts were crucial in solidifying Samurai Blue’s victory, demonstrating their skill and determination to excel on the international stage.

Minamino opened the scoring quickly after Yukinari Sugawara’s corner kick was saved. The rebound landed perfectly for Minamino, who calmly navigated through defenders to slot the ball into the net, putting Samurai Blue ahead just 11 minutes into the match.

Vietnam responded swiftly, scoring from a corner kick as well. A low cross was expertly redirected by Nguyen Dinh Bac at the near post, sending the ball high into the air before it nestled just under the crossbar and into the far corner for the equalizer.

Japan found itself vulnerable to set pieces once again. During a crucial moment, a free kick was sent into the box and headed back across the goal. Despite Zion Suzuki’s efforts to gather the ball, he could not secure it, which created an opportunity for Pham Tuan Hai. Seizing the moment, Tuan Hai tapped the ball into the net, putting Vietnam in the lead and Japan on the back foot.

After going behind, Samurai Blue intensified their efforts and regained control of the match. Their persistence paid off in the 45th minute when a well-executed buildup set up Wataru Endo. The player, formerly with Shonan Bellmare and Urawa Reds and now making waves at Liverpool, delivered a precise through ball to Minamino, who calmly finished into the bottom corner to equalize.

The Samurai Blue came close to scoring just two minutes later, but a solid save thwarted their efforts. Undeterred, they maintained the pressure and found the go-ahead goal just before halftime, courtesy of a stunning play by Nakamura. Despite being closely marked by a defender, he received the ball during a counterattack and, skillfully maneuvered inside, unleashed a powerful shot from 20 yards that found the top corner of the net for a spectacular goal.

The second half saw Japan assert their dominance on the field, displaying a commanding performance that left them poised to score multiple additional goals. Their relentless attacks and creativity in the final third were evident, as they created several clear chances to extend their lead. However, Filip Nguyen, the goalkeeper for Vietnam, rose to the occasion with a series of impressive saves that kept his team in the match. Meanwhile, the Vietnamese defenders demonstrated remarkable resilience, executing crucial late blocks to thwart Japan’s efforts. A touch of misfortune also played a role, as some opportunities slipped away from the Samurai Blue, preventing them from capitalizing on their strong performance.

At last, Japan struck again in the 85th minute after another extended period of possession, which allowed the ball to reach Ueda inside the box. He skillfully sidestepped a defender, shifted the ball to his right foot, and fired it into the net, sealing the victory for Samurai Blue.

This victory marked Japan’s 11th consecutive win, extending their impressive streak and solidifying their status as one of the favorites to claim the Asian Cup. With three points secured, they have started their campaign on a solid note in pursuit of continental glory for a record fifth time.

Japan’s next match is scheduled for January 19, where they will face Iraq.

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