Japan aim to avenge staggering World Cup loss to Aussies

HANOI, July 17 (Reuters) Japan's meticulous Bosnian coach Ivica Osim had his players practising penalty kicks today in preparation for their Asian Cup quarter-final with Australia.

Japan's first-team players spent their time working on spot kicks while a second-string eleven beat a local amateur side 1-0 in a hastily arranged training match in Hanoi.

Holders Japan finished top of Group B to set up a needle match with Australia, who avoided an early exit by overpowering co-hosts Thailand 4-0 in their final Group A game.

Australia quickly re-established themselves as tournament favourites after finishing runners-up in their group but Japan's players have added incentive to beat them on Saturday.

Japan are desperate to avenge the 3-1 defeat by Australia at last year's World Cup finals in Kaiserslautern as they bid to become only the second team after Iran (1968-76) to win three straight Asian Cup titles.

''We've been waiting for this chance for a long time -- I'm sure the media have too,'' Japan defender Yuji Nakazawa said after today's practice.

''Playing Australia now or in the final doesn't make any difference. They're a powerful side but we're not thinking about losing. We'll give this game everything.'' Last year's first round match in the World Cup finals was one of the most dramatic in the tournament.

Japan were leading from the 26th minute through Shunsuke Nakamura and looked to be heading for victory until six minutes from time when a stunning collapse saw them concede three goals with Tim Cahill scoring twice and John Aloisi once.

Nakazawa, who initially quit international football after Japan's first round World Cup exit, warned that keeping the Socceroos' captain Mark Viduka in check would be crucial.

''He's big and very strong,'' said Nakazawa. ''I know all about him and I'll have to try to make sure I stop him from doing what he does best.'' Nakazawa believes the fact Japan did not have to move from Hanoi will also benefit the defending champions.

''We won the group and got to stay put,'' he smiled. ''That should help.'' REUTERS SAM KN2050