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The Stars and Stripes upset Japan as Czech Republic bend the host from the penalty kick spot
The US National Team ended the first day at the Balaton Beach Soccer Cup at the top of the standings, following a 5-3 win over Japan in the opening game of the competition.
Matsuoka’s opening the score for the Americans with a goal in his own nets proved that was not to be Japan’s most brilliant afternoon. Two goals by Ozu after that could not change the course of things, as Francis Farberoff’s men seemed in control of the situation despite Japan’s 1-1 and 2-2 equalizers.
The 3-1 run in the last stage finally decided the game, giving USA the three points and the head of the table.
In the other game, hosts Hungary saw Czech Republic claim the last point at stake at the penalti kick shootout.
Balasz Rutai’s inspired performance, with three goals, was not enough for the Magyar, who saw Czech Republic’s captain Filip Vyhnal equalize in the dying seconds of the third period to send the game onto extra time.
The Czechs would finally seal the win from the penalty kick spot, grasping the last point at stake and following USA in the table.
For complete results, stats and standings, click here.
