JAPAN have recorded one of the most impressive results in World Cup history against a side from Costa Rica who suffered one of the worst defeats.
The Samurai Blue defeated Germany 2-1 in the first round of group matches but Keylor Navas and co. were humiliated 7-0 by Spain.
The Japanese are no strangers to football’s biggest cup competition, having qualified for the last seven consecutive tournaments.
But securing the spot was perhaps the hardest for Qatar, as two last-minute goals from substitute Kaoru Mitoma in Australia got the job done.
And now Hajime Moriyasu’s men face the difficult task of earning three points from Costa Rica, who already have experience of winning on this ground.
The Ticos suffered heartbreak against the last East Asian opponent they faced, however, thanks to a miracle strike from Tottenham Hotspur’s ace Son Heung-min.
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Japan wins 4/9
Draw on 17.5
Costa Rica wins 15/2
Odds courtesy of Betfair as of 26th November.