Japan edges Ecuador on penalties to reach Kirin Cup final

Japan secured a place in the Kirin Cup final after a penalty shootout victory over Ecuador at the Nissan Stadium in Yokohama. The match ended with no goals during regulation and saw both teams push for a breakthrough but remain scoreless after 90 minutes. Ao Tanaka played 79 minutes in the match before being substituted as Japan ramped up its efforts in search of a winner. The final will see Japan face New Zealand, who also triumphed in a penalty shootout against Panama after a 1-1 draw. The final will take place at Tokyo's National Stadium on October 5.

• 2:42 PMYahoo Sports — Tanaka helps Japan set up final showdown with New Zealand