FIFA World Cup 2018: Japan keeps Asian flag flying, qualifies
Last match loss notwithstanding, Japan made use of its fair play accolades to qualified for the round of 16 in the FIFA World Cup 2018 on Thursday.
Japan was joined by Columbia to complete the round of 16. While Columbia, who needed a win in its last game, scored a facile 1-0 win over Senegal to complete the formality. It was a big disappointment for Senegal who only needed a draw and fought gallantly against the South Americans but were unlucky to end losers by a 74th minute goal scored by Yery Mina.
Before the start of the last round of matches in group H, both Senegal and Japan needed a draw. Both lost. But Japan, though with same number of points and same goal difference, moved to round of 16 because of fair play award.
Poland lived upto its reputation of neverending World Cup group matches without a win. Though it was out of running, it did surprise its Asian rivals with a goal that came in the 59th minute from Jan Bednarek.
It may be pertinent to mention that in 1982, Poland had beaten Belgium through a hat-trick of goals by Z. Boniek. Currently, Boniek is the President of the Polish Football body and is currently accompanying the team to FIFA World Cup.
Columbia and Japan now complete the list of 16 teams that play in the knock out round.
Japan thus becomes the Asian representative in the round of 16.
