Saitama: Japan captain Maya Yoshida has insisted the Samurai Blue still have plenty room for improvement despite Tuesday's resounding 4-0 victory over Thailand in Group B of the FIFA World Cup Russia 2018 qualifying campaign.
The hosts took an early lead at Saitama Stadium through Shinji Kagawa before Shinji Okazaki doubled their advantage inside 20 minutes as Japan continued their form following an impressive 2-0 victory in the United Arab Emirates five days ago.
After setting up the opening two goals, Yuya Kubo added a third just before the hour, while defender Yoshida (pictured, second right) headed in the final goal of the night on 83 minutes. Teerasil Dangda’s late penalty miss capped a miserable night for Thailand as the Southeast Asians’ qualification hopes were finally ended.
“We let ourselves down with some stupid and unnecessary mistakes,” said Yoshida. “I have to lead the team but I couldn’t at times today so that’s the most frustrating part.
“But the good thing is we got three points and we got four goals, which could be important in the future. We have many things we have to improve, but at least we got three points.”
Japan went into Matchday Seven in second place in Group B, behind Saudi Arabia on goal difference alone, with both teams on 13 points.
But Australia’s 2-0 win over the UAE earlier on Tuesday moved the Socceroos level on points with the top two and increased the need for the Samurai Blues to claim back-to-back victories as the Road to Russia heats up.
And after showing no signs of feeling the pressure, the 4-0 scoreline saw Vahid Halilhodzic’s team end the day in top spot after Saudi Arabia’s 1-0 defeat of Iraq meant goal difference swayed in the East Asians’ favour.
“We are still not there,” added Yoshida. “From now on every single game is important and every game makes a difference. Now we have to focus for the game against Iraq.”
While Kubo’s goal and two assists added to his strike and assist against the UAE to cap a fine five days for the Belgium-based player, it was also a night to remember for Okazaki, who netted his 50th goal for his country.
“There’s definitely a feeling of having finally moved on from 49,” admitted the Leicester City forward, whose last international goal came against Bulgaria in June 2016.
“I haven’t scored that kind of goal recently, a header like that, so it feels good to get my finishing instincts back.
“I’ve been aware of not playing a full game for the national team recently, so for me have been able to do that feels good as well.”
Photos: Lagardère Sports
Source: the-afc.com