India, March 30 -- Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu hailed his team's tactical flexibility after a late Junya Ito strike secured a 1-0 victory over Scotland in a pre- World Cup friendly at Hampden Park, leaving the home side facing a chorus of boos.

In a key warm-up for their eighth successive World Cup appearance, the Samurai Blue overcame a bright Scotland start to dominate the second half. Substitute Ito proved the difference in the 84th minute with a clinical finish from 12 yards to settle a tight contest. While Scotland manager Steve Clarke admitted he was "surprised and disappointed" by the negative reaction from the Tartan Army, Moriyasu focused on his side's defensive discipline and late clinical edge.

"I am very pleased to play in s...