The New Nation - Internet Edition

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Japan and Chile played to a 0-0 tie on Saturday in an international exhibition game.

Japan was playing under newly appointed coach Takeshi Okada, who replaced Ivica Osim after the Bosnian suffered a stroke in November.

Japan's best scoring chances came in the second half courtesy of Yoshito Okubo, who came on as a substitute for striker Naohiro Takahara.

"We had our chances but weren't able to take advantage," said Okada, who led Japan to its first World Cup in 1998.

Okubo got behind Chile's defense seconds after coming on but fired inches over the crossbar. Okubo almost scored on a header in the 82nd minute but Chile goalkeeper Miguel Pinto made a brilliant save.

"We have to be more aggressive on the attack," said Takahara. "We have to learn to finish better."

Japan will next play Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday ahead of its first qualifier for the 2010 World Cup on Feb. 6 against Thailand.

Japan has been drawn with Bahrain, Oman and Thailand in its qualification group.