Japan failed to take another step towards the knockout rounds of the World Cup as Kescher Fuller’s late goal earned Costa Rica an emphatic Group E victory.
After their surprise win over Germany, Japan were frustrated by a tight defensive unit before Fuller fired Costa Rica’s first shot on target of the tournament.
The result leaves both teams on three points after two games, with Spain – who still top the group on goal difference – facing Germany later on Sunday (19:00 GMT).
A win for Spain would guarantee their progress to the last 16.
After defeating Germany in their opening match, many expected Japan to account for the Costa Rican team’s 7-0 drubbing by Spain.
However, Japan boss Hajime Moriasu opted for rotation over continuity, making five changes, and the result was a lackluster performance and a scoreline that blew the group apart.
It was a remarkable victory for Costa Rica, who were unable to lay a glove on Japan’s defense before Fuller’s shot from the edge of the box was saved by goalkeeper Shuichi Gonda nine minutes later.
After a first half devoid of goalmouth action in the sweltering heat at the Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium, Japan dominated for a big spell. However, they struggled to create clear-cut chances until the 88th minute, when Daichi Kamada was unable to head the ball home after a driving Kaoru Mitoma run.
Redeeming their humiliation at the hands of Spain, Costa Rica’s players celebrated passionately at full-time as Japan were left to put up a disappointing display to back up their heroics against Germany. Failed.
