Defending champion, Japan starting off their Asian Cup title defense in a convincing fashion after defeating Palestine 4-0. Having a superior players quality along with experience, the Blue Samurai dominated proceedings since early minutes.

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.