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Japan cruise past Paraguay in round 1 of the olympic football group stage games
Japan launched their Tokyo 2024 Olympic football campaign in style with a resounding 5-0 victory over Paraguay in Bordeaux.
The Samurai Blues, renowned for their consistency in group stages, continued their impressive run with a performance marked by swift transitions and decisive goals.
The match began with Japan asserting dominance from the outset, as Shunsuke Mito broke the deadlock in the 19th minute.
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Ayumu Ohata provided the assist, setting up Mito to calmly slot home a precise low finish past Paraguay’s goalkeeper Gatito Fernández. The early goal set the tone for Japan's relentless pursuit of goals.
Paraguay’s challenges compounded when Wilder Viera received a straight red card for a reckless tackle on Yu Hirakawa just moments later, leaving them a man down for the majority of the game.
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Despite Japan enjoying numerical superiority, they had to wait until after halftime to extend their lead further.
In the second half, Japan showcased their efficiency in front of goal once more. Mito secured his brace with a well-timed header, capitalizing on Koki Saito’s skillful play to put Japan firmly in control.
Rihito Yamamoto then added a third goal, curling a precise shot from outside the box into the bottom corner.
With victory secured, Japan's depth and dynamism were on full display as substitute Shota Fujio made an immediate impact late in the game.
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Fujio first scored with a clinical header from Ryotaro Araki’s free-kick, showcasing Japan's set-piece proficiency. He then sealed the emphatic win with a composed finish on the break, highlighting Japan's ability to capitalize on every opportunity.
Manager Go Oiwa praised his team's performance, emphasizing their discipline and execution on the field. The comprehensive victory not only underlined Japan’s ambitions in Tokyo but also signaled a statement of intent in their quest for Olympic gold.
Japan will draw confidence from this commanding display, aiming to build momentum and continue their winning streak in pursuit of Olympic glory.
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