Resolute Costa Rica snatch suprise win against Japan

Keysher Fuller’s aim made the distinction between the 2 sides.

Costa Rica have overwhelmed Japan 1-0 to maintain their hopes of qualification within the subsequent spherical of the World Cup alive.

Luis Fernando Suarez’s gamers spent most of Sunday’s sport on the backfoot however got here on high with right-back Keysher Fuller’s stunning roller within the 81st minute, their first and solely shot on track.

Japan, who entered Ahmad bin Ali Stadium filled with confidence after their win over Germany, lacked the leading edge to interrupt down a resolute Costa Rican defence.

The sport appeared headed for a dour stalemate however burst into life after Fuller’s late aim.

The outcome throws Group E large open. Costa Rica, who misplaced their opening sport 0-7 to Spain, are remarkably nonetheless within the combine to qualify for the following spherical.

A win on Sunday would have sealed Japan’s spot within the spherical of 16, however they’ll now have to get a outcome of their final sport in opposition to Spain to maintain their hopes of qualification alive.

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