Japan beat New Caledonia 1-0; enter round of sixteen along with France
Striker Keito Nakamura put Japan in the lead scoring early in the 7th minute, while Caledonian skpper and medio Jeko Jenodrew level for New Caledonia , who are playing their first U 17 world Cup this time.
France is the other team from this group who also assured their berth in the pre-quarter finals winning all the three league matches.
France beat Hondurus 5-1 this evening. Japan who have earned four points from three matches finished second best in the group.
Japan went all out right after the kick off and took the lead in the seventh minute when Nakamura collecting the ball in the rival box went all on his own and found the target with a powerful from right corner of the box ( 1-0).
Inspired with the early lead Japan forced a barrage of attacks but failed to increase the lead as they finished poorly.
The second half saw Caledonia making quite a few goal bound moves with their captain Jecob Jeno planning most of the moves. Playing their first world cup Caledonian boys went desparate for a goal and earned an equalizer in the 83rd minute.
After a fine attempt by medio Pierro Bako was saved by Japanese custodian Togo Umeda for a corner, Jecob Jeno restored parity beautifully heading home from the resultant flag kick ( 1-1) .
Stung by the reverse Japan made some more moves Caledonian goal but failed to break the rival defence. Caledonia, though made their exit from this world cup tonight, but had the satisfaction of earning a point at least.
By Manik Banerjee
Image:Fifa Facebook page
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