IPOH: World No.16 Japan pulled off another upset by overcoming Paris Olympics-bound New Zealand 4-1 in today's Sultan Azlan Shah (SAS) Cup match in Ipoh.
Japan, who defeated world No. 11 South Korea 2-1 in their opener on Saturday, scored through Naru Kimura (13th minute), Raiki Fujishima (23rd), Tsubasa Tanaka (43rd) and Ken Nagayoshi (60th) at the Azlan Shah Stadium.
Scott Cosslett replied for world No. 10 New Zealand via a penalty corner in the 55th minute.
The Black Sticks, who thrashed Canada 7-1 in their opening match on Saturday, were affected by the heat and could not contain Japan's effective play.
Coach Yoshihiro Anai said his team's well-structured defensive play was the key to their first win over the Kiwis since 2019.
"New Zealand were physically strong, but we were organised, especially in defence. Our strategy to be solid defensively worked to our advantage," said Anai after the match.
"We were also focused on counter-attacks, accurate passing and teamwork."
New Zealand coach Greg Nicol said his team played well but could not deliver.
"We had 37 penetrations in (Japan's semi-circle) but could not score."
Japan will take on Pakistan on Tuesday, while New Zealand will entertain hosts Malaysia.
