Japan coach Akira Nishino has admitted that his side's match against Senegal was always going to be difficult.

The Group H clash ended 2-2 in Yekaterinburg, leaving both teams on four points at the top of the table.

Nishino's side had to come from behind twice to scrape a point against the Lions of Teranga, and the Japan boss said that he was always wary of his opposition's talent.

"It was a tough match, and we always knew it was going to be tough," Nishino told reporters.

"We knew Senegal were not a team we could win easily against. But the team were calm after conceding goals and it was positive that we were able to equalise twice. We constructed attacks well and played in our own rhythm. The substitutions also worked well and I think I did very well with the timing of those.

"The players were very confident and positive, and I myself thought we could have gone for the victory. And we really wanted to win this match. But Senegal are a very strong team and I hope that this result will lead to more success in our next match."

Japan and Senegal are unbeaten after their opening two games as both sides look to secure their spot in the knockout rounds in their final fixtures of the group.

Written by
Matthew Jones