Shunsuke Nakamura's return to international action was not enough to inspire Japan to victory as Takeshi Okada's men labored to a 0-0 draw with Paraguay on Tuesday night.
Japan put in a ponderous, insipid display in stark contrast to last Saturday's vibrant 1-0 win over Cote d'Ivoire, and although Daisuke Matsui's half-time appearance added some urgency to a team that had virtually sleepwalked through the first 45 minutes, scoring chances were at a premium.
The draw at Saitama Stadium was enough for Japan to claim first place in the three-team Kirin Cup tournament, but Okada was more concerned about next month's four World Cup qualifying matches.