Ivory Coast got their World Cup 2014 campaign off to a positive start as they defeated Asian representative, Japan this weekend. The African side were keen on improving their performance in World Cup and targeting a spot into the knock out stage.

Japan's attacking midfielder, Shinji Kagawa acknowledge that his team might not be having any easy time in their upcoming World Cup 2014 campaign, despite being placed in a relatively equal group.

Japan showed positive signs ahead of their World Cup 2014 campaign as Alberto Zaccheroni's men picked up a comfortable win over Costa Rica this midweek. Playing against fellow World Cup contestants, Japan were experiencing that competitive feel as their opponent put on an aggressive display right from the start.

Being placed in Group C with Colombia, Greece along with Ivory Coast, Japan are considered as the dark horse that could surprise and advanced from their group. However, for that to happen, Blue Samurai head coach, Alberto Zaccheroni is keen on getting his star players match fit for the tournament.

Japan grabbed a positive result during their World Cup preparation after defeating Cypurs in a friendly fixture at Saitama Stadium this midweek. Checking out the result of recent training camp, Japan immediately put on an attacking approach in that tie seeking for early goals.

Following the footsteps of several teams, Japan head coach, Alberto Zaccheroni has already confirmed his 23-men squad for upcoming World Cup 2014, adding that his team doesn't fear anyone in that tournament.

Japan continue to pick up positive results on their friendly fixtures ahead of the upcoming 2014 as this midweek they demolished New Zealand at National Olympic Stadium in Tokyo. The home side immediately took control of situation as they went one goal up after only four minutes of play through Shinji Okazaki's effort.

Securing their World Cup 2014 ticket in a pretty comfortable situation didn't necessarily mean that all things are rosy for Belgium as they still need to improve after suffering a disappointing defeat over Japan this midweek.

Asian side, Japan continue to showcase that they could pose some threat for any top teams in upcoming 2014 World Cup after grabbing a draw against Netherlands this weekend. Both teams were keen on making positive signs by snatching a victory from that friendly encounter as they prepare for the real battle next year.

Japan 3-1 Ghana highlights: Already securing their place in the 2014 World Cup, Japan continue to prepare by organizing friendly matches and this midweek, Ghana were the Blue Samurai's rival.

Japan 3-0 Guatemala highlights: Japan continue their preparation ahead of their World Cup adventure as they play in a friendly fixture against Guatemala this past Friday. It was not an easy task for Japan as their opponent put on a solid performance in the first 45 minutes forcing that period to end in a goalless draw.

Italy 4-3 Japan highlights: Italy completed the scenario in Group A as they join Brazil in becoming the two teams that advanced into Confederations Cup semifinals after Gli Azzurri defeated Japan this midweek.