Honda came off the bench with the scores level at 2-2 as Japan threw away a two-goal advantage before Nacer Chadli’s last-gasp strike took Roberto Martinez’s side into the quarter-finals and leave the Japanese frustrated yet again.

This was the third time Japan have exited the competition at the Round of 16 having lost to Turkey in 2002 and Paraguay in South Africa in 2010, a game in which Honda played as the Samurai Blue were knocked out in a penalty shootout.

The four-time AFC Asian Cup winners threw away a two-goal lead to lose 3-2 in stoppage time as the Japanese missed out once more on a place in the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup.

Nacer Chadli’s goal on the break deep into added time handed Belgium the win and ensured Japan’s run at Russia 2018 ended in the last 16, just as it did in 2002 and 2010.

Goals from Genki Haraguchi and Takashi Inui handed Japan a 2-0 lead in the second half at Rostov Arena but Belgium hit back with three goals, including a 94th-minute winner that knocked out the last Asian side remaining at this FIFA World Cup.

Although Japan failed to get past the last 16 once again – they also came up short in 2002 and 2010 – Tashima gushed with praise for Akira Nishino’s men, who had the Belgians sweating and were on the cusp of reaching their nation’s first-ever FIFA World Cup quarter-final.

Chadli's superbly worked goal in the fourth minute of stoppage time was the final act of an epic last 16 battle that saw Belgium become the first team in 48 years to successfully overturn a 2-0 deficit in a World Cup knockout game.

The Red Devils will face five-time champions Brazil in Kazan on Friday after scoring three second-half goals without reply to break Japan's dogged resistance.

Goals by Genki Haraguchi and Takashi Inui in four devastating minutes had put Japan 2-0 up early in the second half to leave Belgium reeling.

However, the Red Devils responded with quick goals of their own as Jan Vertonghen, at fault for Haraguchi's goal, and Marouane Fellaini both scored headers before Chadli's dramatic winner in Rostov.

Having also exited the last 16 in both 2002 and 2010, Japan suffered Knockout Stage heartbreak for the third time.

Happy homecomings, tournament highlights, match-winning celebrations, a stunning save and a new contract are all included in this week’s selection of the latest happenings both inside and outside of Russia.

Many of the Samurai Blue shone in the first round while, although departed, a number of players from Asia’s four other representatives grabbed the world’s attention. The-AFC.com has chosen five for you to vote for your standout performer.

“Although the results didn’t go our way, the Socceroos have made Australia proud with outstanding performances against France, Denmark and Peru,” said Lowy.

“The team showed the world that they were able to match it with some of the best football teams at the tournament and have won support from around the globe as a result.

“This group of players led on and off the pitch by senior players Mile Jedinak, Tim Cahill, and Mark Milligan will definitely provide inspiration for young footballers around Australia who will hopefully also aspire to represent Australia at future World Cups,” said Lowy.