World Cup: Japan make history, defeat Colombia 2-1

By Satuk Bugra Kutlugun

ANKARA (AA) - Japan made history on Tuesday afternoon as they beat Colombia 2-1 in Group H to become the first Asian country to ever defeat a South American opponent.

Yuya Osako's header from a corner kick in the 73rd minute sealed the deal for Japan at Mordovia Arena in Saransk.

Colombia started the match in the worst possible way when Carlos Sanchez was sent off for a handball in the area in the 3rd minute. This was the second fastest red card in World Cup history.

Japan's Shinji Kagawa converted the penalty, giving his team the lead.

Juan Quintero's clever strike on a free kick in the 39th minute was captured by Japan's goalkeeper but the ball had passed the goal line, making it 1-1.

The other match in Group H will be played between Senegal and Poland at Spartak Stadium in Moscow at 6 p.m. local time (1500GMT).