All Whites beaten in Kirin Cup final by Japan
The All Whites have lost the Kirin Cup final against Japan 2-1 despite putting on another good showing across the field in front of over 60,000 fans at Tokyo National Stadium.
Japana are 17th on the FIFA rankings while New Zealand are 87th.
Japanese captain Ritsu Doan, shone in the game and scored the what would prove to be the winning goal n the 67th minute, finding space at the far post, after some good work by Keito Nakamura.
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Earlier striker Ayase Ueda opened the scoring in the 28th minute, from close range. However the All Whites snared a superb equaliser just three minutes later, with a powerful finish from Ben Old, after he was played in by Chris Wood.
Afterwards Old was energised from the game.
"One of the best atmosphere's I've ever played in. Credit to Japan. this was an amazing experience," he said.
Regarding his goal the 24-year-old appeared stunned netting the strike"
"I ust happened so quickly I could see it unfolding I just gambled and thankfully it went in the top corner, so i was very happy."
New Zealand's international window now comes to a close with the players set to return to their clubs.
The All Whites will next be back in action at home in November, taking on India in a two-match series, first at Go Media Stadium before their first-ever match at One New Zealand Stadium in Christchurch.
