Guatemala went ahead when Berny Marroquin robbed no less a legend than Ozu Moreira and, with his outstretched leg, produced a superb finish. 

Ryota Tsuboya responded for Japan just six seconds later with a brilliant bicycle kick, only for Miguel Gonzalez to restore Los Chapines’ lead right from the restart. 

Kosuke Matsuda ensured the Samurai Blue finished the first period at parity with another fine goal following a canny Ozu set-up.

Japan struck the woodwork three times in a goalless second period, but they rippled the net thrice in the third. 

Goalkeeper Takeru Furusato conned Gonzalez, cut inside and unleashed an excellent finish into the bottom corner, Takuya Akaguma dispatched an overhead kick, Ozu netted with an immaculate drive, and Tsuboya sealed the success.

Japan will look to build on their momentum when they face Belarus on Saturday.