Okazaki Earns 112th Cap For Japan

Internationals
31 May 2018
1 Minute
Shinji Okazaki earned his 112th cap for Japan and Hamza Choudhury made his maiden start for England’s Under-21s in the latest round of international fixtures.

- Leicester City striker Shinji Okazaki makes his 112th appearance for Japan
- Japan suffered a 2-0 defeat by Ghana at International Stadium Yokohama on Wednesday
- On Tuesday, Hamza Choudhury also made his full debut for England's Under-21s 
- The Young Lions were held to a 0-0 draw by Mexico at the Toulon Tournament

Okazaki, 32, came off the bench in the second half during a 2-0 defeat by Ghana at International Stadium Yokohama.

Thomas Partey’s early effort and Emmanuel Boateng’s second half penalty condemned Akira Nishino’s side to a disappointing defeat on Wednesday.

Japan have been placed in Group H, alongside Colombia, Senegal and Poland, ahead of the competition's start on Thursday 14 May.

Hamza Choudhury in action for the England Under-21s in Toulon.

Choudhury, meanwhile, completed the full 90 minutes during the England Under-21s' 0-0 draw with Mexico at the Toulon Tournament on Tuesday.

On Saturday, the 20-year-old midfielder made his first appearance for the Young Lions from the bench during a 2-1 victory over China.

England’s attentions now turn towards facing Qatar on Friday, with Aidy Boothroyd’s side looking to better Mexico’s result against China to secure a guaranteed semi-final berth.