Japan 2-1 Venezuela Player Ratings: Ueda 8.5/10 as the Samurai Blue's Dramatic Penalty Hero Sinks the Vinotinto in Hiroshima

Hajime Moriyasu used the intimate surroundings of Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima to experiment with squad depth and tactical variation ahead of Japan's upcoming Asian qualifier campaign, yet the evening produced a far more competitive contest than the friendly billing suggested, with Venezuela's well-organised and physically imposing side demonstrating exactly why Oswaldo Vizcarrondo's emerging Vinotinto are one of South America's most intriguing international prospects heading into the next Copa America cycle.

The Venezuela national football team struck first through Kelsy's composed 46th-minute finish, the Rangers forward exploiting a momentary lapse in Japan's defensive concentration immediately after the restart, before Ueda's composed equaliser three minutes later restored parity and gave the capacity Hiroshima crowd the platform from which they urged their side forward. The evening's most dramatic moment arrived deep into stoppage time when Ueda stepped up to convert a coolly dispatched headed penalty in the 96th minute, sending Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima into scenes of pure delirium and handing the Japan national football team a victory their second-half dominance ultimately deserved. Check out the Japan vs Venezuela player ratings.

Japan National Football Team Player Ratings vs Venezuela

Here are the Japan national football team player ratings from the Japan vs Venezuela player ratings.

Venezuela National Football Team Player Ratings vs Japan

Have a look at the Venezuela national football team player ratings from the Japan vs Venezuela player ratings.

Man of the Match

Sportsdunia's Man of the Match goes to Kevin Kelsy.