ShopnoSports News

Japan claimed top spot in World Cup Group C ahead of Spain after condemning them to a remarkable 4-0 thrashing in Wellington with some superb counter-attacking play.

Both sides went into the game having already qualified for the last 16 on six points apiece, with Spain leading on goal difference, but Jorge Vilda’s side were left stunned in the first half as they bossed possession only to see their opponents score three times.

Japan’s impressive World Cup form continued as a convincing 2-0 victory over Costa Rica strengthened their Group C qualification bid.

First-half strikes from Hikaru Naomoto and Aoba Fujino saw the 2011 champions build on last week’s 5-0 opening game win over Zambia with a free-flowing show in Dunedin.

Japan made an impressive start to their World Cup campaign as they strolled to a 5-0 Group C victory over Zambia at Waikato Stadium.

Futoshi Ikeda’s side made a positive start and twice went close in the early stages through Aoba Fujino, who saw one effort superbly saved by goalkeeper Catherine Musonda before seeing a second attempt at goal come back off the post.