Japan and Holland grab wins in Group E

Japan took a an upset win over Cameroon and Holland took care of Denmark 2-0 to open Group E play at the 2010 World Cup.  After Japan's poor recent run of form expectations had been dramatically lowered heading to South Africa, but they were able to rise to the occasion against Cameroon.   A 39th minute goal from Keisuke Honda send Japan on their way in front of a loud yet disappointingly small crowd.  Cameroon pushed hard in the second half and were very very unlucky to have not scored on a couple of occasions, but Japan were able to hang on by a thread for the 1-0 victory.

In the other Group E game, Denmark headed to the halftime lockeroom tied with rivals Holland 0-0, but it was to be shortlived as Holland would strike just a minute into the second half.   An own goal put Holland in the lead and their class would show clearly in the last 45 minutes of play.  Dirk Kuyt added the 2nd goal providing the final 2-0 margin.

Holland tops Group E on goal differential, but tied with Japan on three points each.  Both Cameroon and Denmark are looking at elimination heading into their second match of the tournament.  Holland and Japan face off next with the winner booking passage to the knockout phase.