Japan escapes defeat against South American representative

10/10/2025 20:55:00 ChampionChatter

The Japan national team managed a 2-2 draw with Paraguay in the international friendly.

The Japanese squad delivered an emotional performance, securing a 2-2 draw against Paraguay in the international friendly on the evening of October 10. A late goal by Ayase Ueda in the fourth minute of stoppage time helped the "Blue Samurai" avoid defeat despite missing several key players due to injuries.

The match was played in a lively atmosphere as both teams prepared for the 2026 World Cup with a mindset of testing their lineups. Paraguay, who earned the last direct qualification spot from South America, started confidently with the energetic Miguel Almiron, the Atlanta United star. In the 20th minute, Almiron beat goalkeeper Zion Suzuki to open the scoring for the visitors.

However, Paraguay’s advantage lasted only briefly. Five minutes later, Japan responded strongly when Koki Ogawa equalized, leveling the match.

Nhật Bản thoát thua trước đại diện Nam Mỹ 719959 — Japan secured a 2-2 draw against the South American side. Photo: JFA

In the second half, Japan continued to push forward, with Takumi Minamino as the focal point of their attacks. The Monaco midfielder even put the ball in the net early in the second half, but the goal was disallowed for offside.

Meanwhile, Paraguay capitalized fully on set-piece opportunities. In the 64th minute, Diego Gomez rose high to head the ball, putting the visitors ahead 2-1 for the second time.

In the final minutes, coach Hajime Moriyasu brought on Ayase Ueda hoping for a breakthrough. The Feyenoord striker did not disappoint. At the start of the fourth minute of stoppage time, Ueda delivered a precise header that earned Japan a valuable equalizer.

The 2-2 draw was a well-deserved reward for Japan’s efforts in an emotionally charged match. Despite some defensive mistakes, the fighting spirit of Moriyasu’s players until the final whistle remained a highlight.

Japan will host Brazil in their next friendly, while Paraguay will travel to Seoul to face South Korea. Both teams view these matches as important preparations for the 2026 World Cup, where they aim to progress further than in previous tournaments.