Colombia had a nightmare start to the World Cup as Japan secured a victory against 10 men in their Group H opener in Saransk.
Carlos Sanchez was sent off inside the first three minutes for handling Shinji Kagawa's shot at a goal. It is the first red card given at this World Cup, and Kagawa calmly scored the penalty.
Then Japan wasted two goal scoring opportunities to increase their advantage. Six minutes before the break Juan Quintero punished them with a clever free-kick. The Colombian fired low under the jumping wall, brought his team back on level terms.
James Rodriguez was brought on in the second half despite his fitness concerns, but the records show Colombia had never win a World Cup match after conceding the opening goal. In the 73rd minute, Yuya Osako regained the lead for Japan with a fine header from Keisuke Honda's corner.
The Blue Samurai finally made their extra man count and dominated as much as possible. It is the first time Japan had won a World Cup match on European soil, and the first time they beat a South American team at the tournament.
Photo: FIFA
Photo: FIFA
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