Japan adopted a patient approach early in their Group B opener against Syria before upping their tempo to cruise to a 5-0 win, much to Oiwa’s delight.
“It was a really tough first game, and the heat made it even more challenging,” said Oiwa, who steered Japan to the title in 2024. .....
⚽ 𝗚𝗢𝗔𝗟 | 🇯🇵 Japan 1️⃣-0️⃣ Syria
— #AFCU23 (@afcasiancup) January 7, 2026
Yuto Ozeki catapults the reigning champs into the lead!
Watch 𝙇𝙄𝙑𝙀: https://t.co/VoZL8Mc9hI#AFCU23 | #JPNvSYR pic.twitter.com/maPa2GH4zm
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