International Friendlies
Jun 3, 2014 2.00am
1
3
HT : 1 0
FT
  • Bryan Ruiz 32' goal
  • yellowcard Yuya Osako 8'
  • yellowcard Yasuyuki Konno 38'
  • goal Yasuhito Endo 60'
  • goal Shinji Kagawa 80'
  • goal Yoichiro Kakitani 90'

Japan warm up for World Cup with Costa Rica victory

Japan warm up with Costa Rica victory

England's World Cup rivals Costa Rica warmed up for the tournament with a 3-1 defeat to Japan in Tampa, Florida.

Both teams had chances early on with Shinji Kagawa going close for the Japanese, but it was former Fulham forward Bryan Ruiz who put Costa Rica ahead just after the half-hour mark.

The playmaker managed to escape the defence's attention at the back post to tap home after good work from Christian Bolanos.

However, Yasuhito Endo got his side back into it on the hour mark when Keisuke Honda was released with a long ball over the top before finding his teammate with a smart cutback.

Manchester United star Kagawa then gave the Japanese the lead 10 minutes from time when he steered a shot beyond Keylor Navas in the Costa Rican goal.

As the game edged into injury time Yoichiro Kakitani put the gloss on the result when he capitalised on a poor clearance to slot home.

Author photo

Written by

Share this article:
Subscribe to our newsletter

Get FREE daily news and in-depth previews for games from the biggest leagues and competitions in world football — straight to your inbox.

Subscribe