Japan lose to Poland 0-1, but progresses to knockout phase in rare fashion

Japan, despite losing 0-1 to Poland in their final Group H game, became the second Asian country after South Korea to advance to the knockout phase of the World Cup in Russia.

Japan progressed to the pre-quarterfinals by the skin of their teeth, thanks to their lower tally of yellow cards compared to Senegal.

In a rare turn of events, the African side were eliminated after finishing level with Japan on points, goal difference and goals scored.

The Samurai Blue, who had needed only a draw to qualify from Group H, went behind in the 59th when Poland’s Rafal Kurzawa floated a free-kick to the far post and an unmarked Jan Bednarek scored from close range.

Until then, Japan had looked content to contain Poland in stifling heat in Volgograd and they left in-form midfielder Takashi Inui on the bench until they were chasing an equaliser.

Poland’s star striker Robert Lewandowski missed a good chance to double the lead in the 74th, meaning he failed to score in all three matches he played at the World Cup in Russia.

The game finished in farcical circumstances with both Japan and Poland happy with the result and content to play keep-ball.