The Tricolors of Costa Rica recorded a hard fought 1-0 victory over Japan earlier at the Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, thanks to Keysher Fuller's late strike
An explosive start to the game for the Blue Samurai who started off with a dangerous corner kick taken by Yuki Soma but met no connection and went wide.
The Tricolors subsequently settled in the game, and took it under their control, dictating the pattern of play.
Joel Campbell- one of the experience players in the team was clipped down for a free kick but his effort was saved by Shuichi Gonda.
Inside 19 minutes, Japan broke into attack with an attack but Miki Yamane's cross was cut out by Kendall Waston.
Despite an even exchange from both teams, there was no goal produced after first half after really an interesting fixture.
Back from the break, the Asians resumed with an attempt on goal but Wataru Endo had his long range hit stopped by Francisco Calvo.
Another attempt as Yamane once again crafted in a beautiful cross which was followed with a strong header from Takuma Asano but was saved by Keylor Navas.
Costa Rica also with their first incursion in the second half but Waston's long pass to pick up Joel Campbell upfront couldn't materialize.
Costa Rica at long last snatched the lead on the 81st minute through Keysher Fuller- who pounced on a defensive blunder from Hidemasa Morita. Just what they've been hunting for.
It ended 1-0 after full time for the North Americans. Costa Rica, Spain and Japan are all three points in Group E at the moment.
Spain will look to secure qualification tonight when they face Germany in a crunchy clash tonight at the Al Bayt Stadium.
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