FIFA World Cup 2002 Group H
Co-hosts Japan topped their group with two wins and a draw and joined South Korea in the next round. Belgium also qualified after a dramatic final match against Russia.
You are welcome to contact me with corrections or additions.
2002 Overview | Group A | Group B | Group C | Group D | Group E | Group F | Group G | Group H | Knock Out Stages
1998 | World Cup Index | 2006
Japan
Belgium
Japan 2 Belgium 2
Saitama Stadium, Saitama (55,256)
4 June 2002
There was plenty of drama in Japan's opener in which they struggled to stay in the match against more powerful opposition. The home side fell behind in the 57th minute but within two minutes were back on level terms thanks to Takayuki Suzuki. After 67 minutes Inamoto put Japan into the lead but just eight minutes later Van Der Heyden made it 2-2.
Russia
Tunisia
Russia 2 Tunisia
Kobe Wing Stadium, Kobe (30,957)
5 June 2002
Two goals early in the second half, the second a penalty, secured Russia a deserved victory.
Japan
Russia
Japan 1 Russia 0
International Stadium Yokohama, Yokohama (66,108)
9 June 2002
Six minutes into the second half Inamoto put the home team ahead and despite pressure from the Russians, they held on for a famous victory with fast, exuberant football.
Tunisia
Belgium
Tunisia 1 Belgium 1
Ōita Big Eye Stadium, Ōita (52,000)
10 June 2002
The attendance demonstrated the enthusiasm in Japan for the tournament. Belgium took the lead after 17 minutes but less than five minutes later, Tunisia were level. In the second half, played in stifling heat and 95% humidity, Tunisia defended to hold onto their point.
Japan
Tunisia
Japan 2 Tunisia 0
Nagai Stadium, Osaka (45,213)
14 June 2002
Japan thoroughly deserved their second win and a place in the next round. Both goals came in the second half.
Belgium
Russia
Belgium 3 Russia 2
Shizuoka Ecopa Stadium, Shizuoka (46,640)
14 June 2002
Going into the game, Russia held a one point advantage so a draw would have been good enough while the Belgians had to win. Belgium got off to the perfect start, Walem scoring in the seventh minute. Beschastnykh equalised seven minutes after the break but two goals in four minutes (Sonck 78', Wilmots 82') put Belgium firmly in control. Sychev pulled one back for Russia with two minutes to go to set up a stirring finale.