Japan's exit ends Asian hopes at World Cup

Yuichi Komano played the pantomime villian as his missed penalty proved decisive in ending Japan's impressive World Cup exploits. Stepping up to face Paraguay goalkeeper Justo Villar, Komano could only strike the bar while all five Paraguay penalty takers found the back of the net to see them through to the quarter finals against Spain in South Africa.

Japanese supporters were full of praise for their team -- ranked 45th in the world -- which exceeded expectations by coming this far. Despite a cagey performance ending 0-0 in the round of sixteen match last night, Japan showed themselves to be organised and capable of flair in the tournament. "This team was the most fun of any national team so far," said university student Ase Yokoyama, 21. 

New Prime Minister Naoto Kan said in a statement, "The players and the bench were united and showed the world the potential of Japanese soccer. I sincerely congratulate their efforts."

Japan was the last Asian nation in the tournament that now sees all quarter-finals featuring a South American team, creating the possibility of all-South-American semi-finals.

Manager Takashi Okada, who had been the source of heavy criticism coming into the tournament, can hold his head high when the team return to Japan to recieve what is sure to be a warm welcome home.

Ryosuke Kato, public relations office of soccer bar Nakata Net Café said, “It’s really sad. But [Japanese people] simply say thank you for doing your best.”