Japan beat depleted Scotland 2-0 in Kirin Cup friendly

Two late goals gave Japan a 2-0 win over a below-strength Scotland in a friendly in Yokohama yesterday.

A Christophe Berra own goal eight minutes from time and a last-minute goal from Keisuke Honda gave Japan victory in their Kirin Cup opener.

"We lacked penetration in the first half but I felt we got better and better as the game went on," Japan coach Takeshi Okada told reporters.

Japan who have secured qualification for next year's World Cup in South Africa, were the better of the two sides in a dreary match.

Dutch-based midfielder Honda squandered several opportunities before Berra's unfortunate own goal gifted the home team the lead.

Honda made sure of the win from close-range with injury time beckoning.

Japan were angered by several late withdrawals from the Scotland squad, including captain Darren Fletcher and defender Alan Hutton with injury.

"Japan had a lot of possession but didn't have too many chances," said Scotland coach George Burley. "We are disappointed obviously about giving away the own goal."

World Cup hosts South Africa were condemned to yet another defeat in their preparations for next year's tournament when they lost 1-0 in Norway.

It is the seventh loss in eight games and will lead to further speculation over the future of beleaguered coach Joel Santana.

Kjetil Waehler's stole in unmarked at the back post to finish off a long throw from John Arne Riise that was flicked on by Norway captain John Carew in the 47th minute.

Norway squandered several other good opportunities, notably in the first half through Erik Huseklepp and Morten Gamst Pedersen.

Riise blasted over from less than five metres out some 15 minutes from time as Norway began to overrun their visitors in the second half.

South Africa managed their first shot on goal only after half-time and rarely threatened their hosts.

They go on to their next match in Iceland on Tuesday facing an increasing crisis of confidence.