Japan hit eight in rout of Tajikistan

DUSHANBE, October 12, 2011, Asia-Plus -- Asian champions Japan roared back to form with an 8-0 thrashing of Tajikistan in 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil qualifying on October 11, AFP reports.

Four goals in each half from the Samurai Blue put the hapless Tajiks to the sword and boosted Alberto Zaccheroni's team's hopes of early progression to the continent's final qualifying stage.

Japan's lop-sided victory at Osaka Nagai Stadium followed last week's unimpressive 1-0 friendly win over Vietnam and their 1-1 draw in Uzbekistan last month.

Zaccheroni said: “This victory gives us a very good feeling.  I knew hopes among fans were high. The players responded with their good performance today.  I hope we can clinch [progression] before waiting for our final match in February.”