Japan lacked a finishing touch as it settled for a scoreless draw with Cameroon on Friday in the first match of the year for manager Hajime Moriyasu's Samurai Blue.

The game was not only Japan's first during a year disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic, but also the first with a squad made up entirely of overseas-based players — since players returning to their J. League teams would be required to quarantine for two weeks.

Japan created numerous chances, particularly on the right wing through second-half substitute Junya Ito, but was unable to unhinge a Cameroon squad that defended in depth.