10.08.2013 17:55 h

Football: Sizzling Kakitani whips Omiya

Brasilianisches Duo
Brasilianisches Duo

Japan striker Yoichiro Kakitani on Saturday showed off his attacking finesse in Cerezo Osaka's comfortable 3-0 victory over Omiya Ardija in the J-League.

Days ahead of the Blue Samurai's home friendly against Latin American powerhouse Uruguay, Kakitani scored twice and set up a third.

"I think I can only join the national team if I can show a high level of performance for my (J-League) team," the 23-year-old told local press after the latest victory.

"If I can play in the next international match, I will give my all," he said.

Kakitani opened the scoring three minutes into the game, when he pounced on a loose ball in front of Omiya goalkeeper Takashi Kitano who was slow to react as he believed another Osaka striker was offside.

Then in the 26th minute, the unmarked Kakitani dashed to a precision Simplicio long ball in front of the box and slammed it into the net.

Kakitani set up his side's third goal in the 64th minute with a cross that was finished by a Simplicio header.

Kakitani's strong performance came after he was called into Japan's national team for his first time last month for the final round of the East Asian Cup in South Korea.

In the four-nation tournament, which also included Australia and China, he played in two games and became the tournament's top scorer with three goals.

In other J-League games, J-League leaders and defending champions Sanfrecce Hiroshima maintained their position with a 2-1 victory over Jubilo Iwata.

Yokohama F Marinos trail closely behind after a 2-1 win against Sagan Tosu. Nagoya Grampus beat third-placed Urawa Red Diamonds 2-0.