Suwon: Japan were beaten 2-0 by Uruguay on Wednesday as their quest to progress from Group D at the FIFA U-20 World Cup was dealt a blow.
A moment of brilliance from Jose Luis Rodriguez and Nicolas Schiappacasse, and a late goal from Mathias Olivera proved Japan's undoing.
The South Americans hung on to their half-time lead as Japan produced several dangerous goalscoring opportunities after the break to keep a second consecutive clean-sheet after their 1-0 victory over Italy last time out.
Both sides were well organised and did not give up any easy chances. However, Uruguay were able to find the breakthrough goal in the 38th minute.
Rodriguez dribbled past two defenders on the right flank before finding Schiappacasse inside the penalty area. The Atletico Madrid forward then dummied one defender and shot the ball past Ryosuke Kojima.
Just as Japan were pushing for an equaliser, Uruguay took advantage and sealed the win as substitute Marcelo Sarachhi played in Olivera who scored past Kojima and booked Uruguay's place in the Round of 16.
Source: FIFA / Getty Images
Source: the-afc.com