nhk world's hiroshi nakajima has more. >> reporter: japan had already booked a spot in the next round with wins in its first two games. yukio had a chance and didn't miss. [ cheers ] japan showed its tactical skill in the 16th minute. but ecuador goalkeeper denied midfielder mayma. a striker shot right over the cross bar. [ cheers ] a substitute blasted one in the 85th minute, but they were again up to the challenge. japan moves on from the group stage with three wins and no losses. >> reporter: other teams have japan in their sights since its world cup victory four years ago. >> the opponents they're coming up again are far better organized to deal with them. now japan may be feeling that the pressure from the opposition. obviously the japanese media, japanese supporters and people from other countries know they're a team they have to expect things from. i think japan is having to come to terms with that at the moment. >> reporter: he also gave us his thoughts on which team will come out on top. >> i think in general the level is really improving. it's not just the traditional big te