Osim off to flyer in charge of Japan

TOKYO, Aug 9 (Reuters) Japan gave new manager Ivica Osim a perfect start with a 2-0 victory over Trinidad and Tobago in a friendly at Tokyo's National Stadium today.

Two goals from Alex helped Japan to a comfortable victory as they sought to erase the memory of a poor World Cup campaign under previous boss Zico.

Japan went ahead in the 16th minute after Keyeno Thomas of Trinidad and Tobago brought down Kazuki Ganaha 20 metres out.

Alex curled a left-foot shot into the right side of the net.

The Brazilian-born midfielder was even more impressive five minutes later when he controlled a perfectly flighted pass from defender Yuichi Komano and chipped the keeper from just inside the box to make the score 2-0.

Japan will take heart from the match as they continue with their Asian Cup qualifying campaign next week with a home game against Yemen.

REUTERS PM PM1918