.jpg)
GROUP C: Japan coach Zaccheroni sniffs a surprise
Japan coach Alberto Zaccheroni believes his side can spring a surprise and reach the last 16 of the World Cup by beating Group C leaders Colombia.
Japan head coach Alberto Zaccheroni during a press conference in Cuiaba. He thinks his team can surprise Colombia in the final group game. Photo by: EPA/JOSE COELHO
By dpa staff
Japan coach Alberto Zaccheroni believes his side can spring a surprise and reach the last 16 of the World Cup by beating Group C leaders Colombia.
"It's the key game for us. All our positive energy is directed to it," The Italian said on the eve of the match in Cuiaba.
Colombia have already sealed a place in the first knock-out stage and Japan could join them, providing they win and Ivory Coast don't beat Greece in Fortaleza.
"Japan are not the best team in the world but in a single game can beat the best in the world," Zaccheroni said.
Zaccheroni would not be drawn on whether Manchester United midfielder Shinji Kagawa would start after he was substituted in the 2-1 defeat to Ivory Coast and began on the subs' bench in the goalless draw with Greece.
"I never say a day before who play," the coach said.
