A last-minute Masahiko Inoha strike gave ten-man Japan a 3-2 victory over Asian Cup hosts Qatar at Al Gharafa Stadium to send the Blue Samurai through to the semi-finals.
Qatar had stunned their opponents in the 12th minute when Sebastian Soria struck but Shinji Kagawa levelled midway through the half with his first of the tournament.
Japan were reduced to ten men in the 63rd minute when Maya Yoshida was shown a second yellow card and substitute Fabio Cesar regained the lead for Qatar from the resulting free-kick.
But despite their numerical disadvantage Japan finished strongly, with Kagawa levelling in the 70th minute and Inoha grabbing the winner with a minute left on the clock.