Japan coach Javier Aguirre was relieved to see off Iraq 1-0 in Friday's Asian Cup Group D encounter after witnessing his side spurn several clear-cut chances in Brisbane.
After defeating Palestine 4-0 in their tournament opener, Japan took firm control of the pool as Keisuke Honda's first-half penalty was enough for all three points at the Suncorp Stadium
However, the scoreline did not truly reflect the nature of Japan's dominance, with Honda wasting a gilt-edged chance when he somehow hit the post from close range with the goal gaping in the second half.
"It was a very complicated game as Iraq defended well and we could not penetrate their defence," he said.
"While we had two or three chances we couldn't score, but I am very happy to get three points and no injuries.
"The team's rhythm in attack was better [than it was against Palestine] as there were more periods of effective one and two-touch play."
"I will congratulate Endo on his 150th game and I thought he and [Shinji] Kagawa performed very well in their roles to combat Iraq's very good midfield. In attack they played even better," he added.
