KAWASAKI — Since American football was introduced here in the early 1930s, Japan had one of the most memorable moments in its history on Saturday when its under-19 squad defeated its American compatriots 24-14 at Kawasaki Stadium in the Under-19 Global Challenge Bowl 2008.

Japan picked up one of its rare victories over the United States, the mother country of American football, and avenged a 23-20 loss in the IFAF World Cup final last July.

Before a crowd of 4,800 at Kawasaki Stadium, Japan played well offensively and defensively, establishing a 24-0 lead going into the final quarter.