Japan advanced into the knockout phase of the World Cup on Thursday despite losing 1-0 to Poland, progressing from group H thanks to their lower tally of yellow cards than Senegal.
The African side were eliminated after their 1-0 defeat by Colombia despite finishing level with Japan on points, goal difference and goals scored.
The Samurai Blue, who had needed only a draw to qualify from group H, went behind in the 59th minute when Poland’s Rafal Kurzawa floated a free kick to the far post and an unmarked Jan Bednarek scored from close range.
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Until then, Japan had looked content to contain Poland in stifling heat in Volgograd and they left in-form midfielder Takashi Inui on the bench until they were chasing an equaliser.
Japan greet their fans after they salvage their World Cup campaign. Photo: Reuters
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Poland’s star striker Robert Lewandowski missed a good chance to double the lead in the 74th minute, meaning he failed to score in all three matches he played at the World Cup in Russia.
