Japan eased into the semi-finals with a 1-0 win over ten-man Egypt at Old Trafford as their opponents wait for a medal in the football competition continues. A game which never really hit the heights on a warm, humid afternoon in Manchester was settled in the 14th minute as Japan, who started the brighter, finally converted a chance.
Egypt were caught in possession out on the right and when the ball was crossed keeper Ahmed Elshenawi and his defender collided allowing Kensuke Nagai an open goal in which to score.
Instead of building on this start it was Egypt who hit back and began to increase the pressure on Japans defence until just before the break when Saadeldin Saad brought down substitute Manabu Saito and was shown a straight red by Mark Geiger the USA referee for denying a clear cut goalscoring opportunity.
The second half lacked incident with Japan content to keep the ball without really looking threatening and Egypt unable trouble their opponents rearguard.
Japan put the result beyond doubt 12 minutes from time as Maya Yoshida was left unmarked to glance home Hiroshi Kiyotake`s free kick.
With Egypt clearly tiring Japan made it three moments later as Yuki Otsu rose highest to head Takahiro Ohgihara`s cross past a static keeper.
Referee: Mark Geiger (USA)
Venue: Old Trafford
Attendance: 70,772
Japan scorers: Nagai 14, Yoshida 78, Otsu 78 Egypt scorers:
Yellow cards: Tokunaga (JAP), Eldin (EGY) Red card: Saad (EGY)
