Men's Football: US defeats Japan 1-0 in Group B opener

Atsuto Uchida(R) of Japan vies with an American football player. (Photo credit: Yang Zongyou/Xinhua)Photo Gallery>>(BEIJING, August 7) -- The United States started its Group B campaign with a hard-fought win over Japan on Thursday in Tianjin.

In a game of few clear-cut chances, Scottish-born Stuart Holden scored the decisive goal for the United States just after the half-time break, but Japan will rue its poor finishing.

In an open first half, Japan sought to impose its short passing game, while the United States looked to exploit its aerial strength with a series of high balls and long throws aimed at striker Brian McBride.

The only shot on target was from the United States Michael Bradley, who slammed his shot into the hands of Japanese goalkeeper Shusaku Nishikawa from 18 meters away.

A clever Japanese corner sliced open the United States' defense but defender Masato Morishige scuffed his shot wide after getting on the end of right-back Atsuto Uchida's cross.

The United States' took the lead in the 47th minute when Holden scored from close range, Nishikawa allowing the ball to squeeze under his body into the net.

Japan's energy levels dropped after the goal and Japan's coach Yasuharu Sorimachi boldly replaced two midfielders with strikers Tadanari Lee and Yohei Toyoda. However, Japan still could not score a goal.

The United States next play the Netherlands on Sunday, August 10, while Japan will look for its first points against Nigeria. Both games are at the Tianjin Olympic Centre Stadium.