U17 World Cup: Takaoko at the double against Senegal fires Japan through

Goals: Takaoko (62, 72)

Player of the match: Wataru Goto (JPN)

Rento Takaoka climbed off the bench to score a match-winning brace and secure Japan’s spot in the last 16 at the FIFA World Cup Indonesia 2023™.

The electric attacker, who has been responsible for all four of his team’s goals, was the difference-maker in an evenly contested match that could easily have swung Senegal’s way.

The African side, who qualify in second - ahead of the Japanese on goal difference - surrendered top spot in the section to Argentina despite creating the better chances during an injury-interrupted first half.

They were punished just after the hour-mark when Takoako found space in the box to bullet home a textbook header from Shotaro Shibata’s superb outswinging cross.

Ten minutes later, the same player effectively settled the outcome, snatching possession from Senegal’s hesitant substitute goalkeeper, Macoura Mboup, before slotting home the simplest of winners.

CREDIT: FIFA.com