Itakura and Japan knocked out of Asian Cup by Iran

In partnership with

Borussia Mönchengladbach

·3 February 2024

Itakura and Japan knocked out of Asian Cup by Iran

Borussia’s centre-back Ko Itakura started once again for a dominant Japan side. Despite having lots of the ball, the favourites struggled to create chances against a physical Iran. Nevertheless, ‘Samurai Blue’ went ahead in the first half courtesy of Sporting’s Hidemasa Morita (31’). Japan failed to take their chances to double their lead before the break.

As a result, Iran found their way back into the game after the interval and equalised through Mohammad Mohebi (55’). They continued to push for another goal and won it in injury time. Itakura gave away a penalty and Alireza Jahanbakhsh converted from the spot (90+6’).