Asian champions Japan have been awarded a 3-0 win over Venezuela after the South Americans were found to have fielded an ineligible player during their friendly in September.
Soccer world governing body FIFA has amended the result of the Sept. 9 game in Yokohama, which ended in a 2-2 draw, on their official Web site as striker Salomon Rondon had picked up a red card in Venezuela’s friendly against South Korea a few days earlier.
Japan’s goals, scored by Yoshinori Muto and Gaku Shibasaki will stand.
Photo: AFP
“We have heard from FIFA that Japan won’t be affected negatively,” Japan Football Association technical director Hiromi Hara told Japanese media.
“Therefore, even if Venezuela are punished, Japan’s appearances and goalscorers will remain as they are,” Hara said.
The development comes as a bonus for Japan coach Javier Aguirre after a poor start in the job and puts a more positive sheen on his record, which now stands at four wins and two defeats.
Photo: AFP
Japan, widely panned after their meek exit from the World Cup under Italian Alberto Zaccheroni, had failed to catch the eye under Aguirre until thrashing Honduras 6-0 and beating Asian rivals Australia 2-1 during the recent international break.
The Blue Samurai, who won the 2011 Asian Cup under Zaccheroni, travel to Australia to defend their title in January next year.
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