(Reuters) - Japan got no reward for their neat approach play in a goalless first half against Greece, who had midfielder and captain Kostas Katsouranis sent off after 38 minutes in their World Cup Group C clash on Thursday.

Katsouranis was shown a second yellow, leaving Greece facing a tough second 45 minutes. Japan, who like the Greeks lost their opening game, moved the ball well but lacked a killer punch with Yuya Osako forcing one good save from Orestis Karnezis.

Greece came alive in the closing moments with Japan keeper Eiji Kawashima making a fine stop to deny Vassilis Torosidis.