Ao Tanaka made his 44th appearance for Japan as the Leeds United midfielder helped his country secure a 3-1 victory over Uruguay at Miyagi Stadium.

The 28-year-old came on as a second-half substitute in front of 44,070 supporters, entering the action in the 77th minute with the score level at 1-1.

Japan had taken an early lead through Kuryu Matsuki, who found the net in the 11th minute, but Uruguay responded through Maximiliano Araújo to ensure the two sides went into the closing stages of the contest level.

Tanaka replaced FSV Mainz midfielder Kaishu Sano as Japan looked to regain the advantage, with the Leeds man featuring during a decisive spell of the match.

The hosts eventually restored their lead in the 92nd minute, when Kento Shiogai struck to put Japan 2-1 ahead.

Ayase Ueda then added a third goal four minutes later, sealing a 3-1 victory for Hajime Moriyasu’s side.

The Leeds midfielder will have further opportunities to represent his country during the current international break, with Japan set to face Venezuela on 28 September before taking on Ecuador on 1 October.