Keysher Fuller found the back of the net during the 81e minute of play to give Costa Rica a 1-0 victory over Japan in one of four matches on the soccer World Cup schedule in Qatar on Sunday.
Fuller took advantage of a defensive error by the Japanese, who were unable to get the ball out of their territory. His shot fired from a distance of 18 meters grazed the fingertips of goalkeeper Shuichi Gonda before vibrating the ropes.
The two teams played a very tactical and lackluster first half, during which no shot reached the opposing net.
The quality of the show was better in the second half, and it was the Japanese who were the most incisive until Costa Rica broke the tie.
PHOTO PHILIP FONG, FRANCE-PRESSE AGENCY
Oscar Duarte and Takuma Asano
Goalkeeper Keylor Navas made several saves in succession during the final minutes of play to secure the victory for Costa Rica.
Japan dominated in terms of corners, shots on goal and possession of the ball without managing to place the ball behind Navas.
The result puts both teams on a three-point record after two games in Group E. Last Wednesday, Japan upset Germany 2-1 while Costa Rica suffered a 7-0 loss to Barcelona. ‘Spain.
Germany and Spain will face off later in the final game of the day.
In the meantime, the four teams that make up Group F will play their second part of the tournament.
Defeated 1-0 by Belgium last Wednesday, Canada will absolutely have to obtain at least one point against Croatia to maintain its chances of participating in the elimination phase.
Previously, Belgium will face Morocco with the aim of staying on top of Group F.
Last Wednesday, Morocco and Croatia could not do well, the two clubs having to settle for a draw of 0-0.