Beaten Japan in deep trouble, says Zico

KAISERSLAUTERN, June 12: Japan coach Zico acknowledged his team had a mountain to climb after their 3-1 defeat by Australia in their World Cup opener today.

''We are in an extremely difficult situation now,'' the Brazilian told reporters after Japan squandered the lead with an astonishing late collapse.

''We have to beat Croatia. Goal difference will also be a problem for us now.'' Japan play Croatia in their next Group F match on June 18.

Japan went ahead through Shunsuke Nakamura's controversial 26th-minute goal but two late strikes from Tim Cahill and a third from John Aloisi in injury time left the Asian champions' hopes in tatters.

''To lose by two goals really hurts us,'' said Zico, whose shattered players sank to their knees in despair at the final whistle.

''We wasted several chances to score more goals and it cost us.

We know we are up against it now but we will not go down without a fight.'' Japan, who reached the last 16 as co-hosts in 2002, face holders Brazil in their final Group F match on June 22.

REUTERS

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