World Cup cohost Japan recorded its first victory on European soil in more than 30 years by shocking Poland 2-0 in a World Cup buildup friendly in Lodz on Wednesday.
Parma playmaker Hidetoshi Nakata, one of four European-based stars returning to the national team, and Jubilo Iwata striker Naohiro Takahara each scored first-half goals to stun the crowd of around 8,000 on a bitterly cold afternoon at Widzew Stadium.
Japan coach Philippe Troussier said he was delighted but not surprised with the result and paid tribute to his players' organization, effort and "fighting spirit."
"Considering the quality of our opponents, (the win) was a good step, especially just two months before the World Cup. I'm not so surprised regarding our quality and talent. We played like a mature team and had a good balance both defensively and offensively," Troussier said.