Under the lights in Hiroshima, Ayase Ueda turned a friendly slipping away from Japan into another late victory, with the Lille forward scoring twice after coming on at half-time against Venezuela.
The Ligue 1 news
Japan defeated Venezuela 2-1 on Monday, four days after earning a 3-1 win over Uruguay with decisive action in added time.
Venezuela struck immediately after the interval through Kevin Kelsy in the 46th minute. Ueda, introduced at the break, replied three minutes later. The 28-year-old finished from close range after a fine delivery by Junya Ito, formerly of Reims.
The match appeared set to finish level, but Ueda delivered again deep into stoppage time. He converted a penalty in the sixth added minute, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to seal Japan’s comeback.
It continues an exceptional spell for the forward, who has nine goals across his past nine appearances for Japan, Lille and Feyenoord in all competitions. Ueda is also the leading scorer in the Eredivisie for the 2025-26 season.
Japan’s next appointment
Japan will complete this international-window friendly programme against Ecuador on Thursday, with kick-off scheduled for 12:10. Ecuador’s squad includes Willian Pacho and Marcelo Gallardo.
