Confidence was key, says coach of Blue Samurai

DOHA - Japan coach Alberto Zaccheroni has saluted his players' nerve and the reflexes of goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima after they beat South Korea 3-0 on penalties to reach the final of the Asian Cup.

The Blue Samurai, who are gunning for a record fourth continental title, had been leading 2-1 with a minute to play in extra-time on Tuesday, before Hwang Jae-won lashed home a dramatic equalizer to take the game to a shoot-out.

It was Japan which held its nerve from 12 yards, however, with Yuto Nagatomo the only Japanese player who failed to find the net as Zaccheroni's side swept into Saturday's final against Australia.