Japan Beat Colombia 2-1 In World Cup Group H Opener

Japan’s forward Yuya Osako scores a header past Colombia’s defender Santiago Arias (L) during the Russia 2018 World Cup Group H football match between Colombia and Japan. (Photo credit: Nigeria News)

Japan Defeats Colombia In World Cup Match

Colombia’s Carlos Sanchez in the match against Japan became the first player to be sent off at the World Cup in Russia when he was dismissed for handball in the match against Japan.

Japan’s Shinji Kagawa scored from the resulting penalty in the sixth minute to take the lead in Saransk.

Japan beat 10-man Colombia 2-1 in the opening match in World Cup Group H on Tuesday, taking advantage of an early red card for midfielder Carlos Sanchez.

Shinji Kagawa gave Japan the lead from the penalty spot after Sanchez handled the ball. Juan Quintero brought Colombia level as half-time approached but Yuya Osako grabbed the winner in the second period.