Japan, which has played in the last five World Cup tournaments, was stunned by the United Arab Emirates, 2-1, in Saitama in the opening group game of the final round of Asian World Cup 2018qualifying.
The Japanese looked to be in control after Keisuke Honda‘s goal in the 11th minute, but the UAE equalized on a free kick by Ahmed Khalil, the Asian Player of theYear, in the 20th minute. Khalil won the game with a penalty kick — a Panenka no less — in the 54th minute.
Other Day scores:
Australia 2 Iraq 0
Iran 2 Qatar 0
SouthKorea 3 China 2
Saudi Arabia 1 Thailand 0
Uzbekistan 1 Syria 0