Japan Edge Zambia 4-3 in Thrilling World Cup Warm-Up Friendly
Japan secured a narrow 4-3 victory over Zambia in a pulsating friendly match on Friday night, as both sides fine-tuned their preparations ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
The Chipolopolo started strongly, racing to a 2-0 lead inside the first half hour with goals from Christopher Katongo in the 9th minute and Nathan Sinkala in the 29th. However, Japan responded before halftime with a goal from Keisuke Honda in the 40th minute, shifting momentum ahead of the break.
The second half saw an intense battle, as Japan mounted a spirited comeback. Shinji Kagawa struck in the 74th minute, swiftly followed by Honda’s second goal a minute later, putting the Samurai Blue ahead 3-2.
Zambia refused to back down, with Stoppila Sunzu Musonda scoring a dramatic equalizer in the 90th minute. But just as the match seemed destined for a draw, Japan’s Yusuke Okubo netted in stoppage time (90+1), sealing a hard-fought victory for the hosts.
The match served as a valuable test for both teams. For Japan, it was an encouraging sign ahead of their Group C clash against Ivory Coast, who closely monitored the encounter.
