Japan qualifies for 2014 soccer World Cup

Updated: 2013-06-07 10:12

(Xinhua)

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Japan qualifies for 2014 soccer World Cup

Japan's soccer players splash drinks on their coach Zaccheroni after their 2014 World Cup qualifying soccer match against Australia in Saitama in June 4. [Photo/Agencies]

Japan qualifies for 2014 soccer World Cup

Japan's Keisuke Honda celebrates after scoring from a penalty kick during their 2014 World Cup qualifying soccer match against Australia in Saitama in June 4. [Photo/Agencies] 

TOKYO - Japan on Tuesday became the first team to qualify for  the 2014 soccer World Cup finals in Brazil after a 1-1 draw with Australia in an Asian zone qualifier held in Japan's Saitama.

In the 81st minute, Australian Tommy Oar scored for his team.

However, in the 90th minute, Japan was awarded a penalty due to a handball by Australian Matt Mckay and Japan's Keisuke Honda blasted the ball past Australian goalkeeper.

The point secured Japan's leading position with 14 points from seven matches in Group B, making the team one of the top two qualifiers in the group.

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