Substitute Tadanari Lee struck a stunning left-foot volley in the second period of extra time to give Japan a 1-0 win over Australia on Saturday and a record fourth Asian Cup title.
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Lee was afforded the freedom of the penalty area in the 109th minute to fire in a Yuto Nagatomo cross from the left as the Blue Samurai sealed a narrow victory at the Khalifa Stadium.
Japan enjoyed long periods of possession on a windy, chilly night in Doha but Australia, seeking a first Asian title, had the better of the chances with striker Harry Kewell proving wasteful in front of goal.
The Galatasaray forward went clean through in the 71st minute but could only fire a low drive straight at Eiji Kawashima in the Japan goal.
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