SAITAMA -- Japan and Paraguay played to a goalless draw in front of close to 60,000 spectators at Saitama Stadium on Wednesday night. Despite the absence of any goals, this Kirin Cup game was highly entertaining as Japan put on a lively and markedly improved display from its recent defeats to South Korea and Argentina.
Under-pressure Japan coach Zico can breathe a sigh of relief as his side finally displayed the energy that had been lacking from previous Kirin Cup performances.
"I was very pleased with the way we played tonight. I thought we attacked well and were unlucky not to come away with a result," the Brazilian said after Japan's final game before departing for next week's Confederations Cup in France.