Yuki Nagasato poked in a shot after Argentina goalkeeper Romina Ferro failed to hold a low hard shot by substitute Yukari Kinga.

The late goal comes three days after Japan scored on the final kick of the game to earn a 2-2 draw with England. Argentina was trounced 11-0 by defending champion Germany in its opening game.

The top two teams advance from Group A, and England plays Germany later Friday.

Japan now needs only a draw in its final game against Germany to be certain of a quarterfinal berth.

The closest Argentina came to scoring was midway through the second half when a shot from about 44 yards by Fabiana Vallejos fooled goalkeeper Miho Fukumoto but hit the post.

Japan threw players forward in the last 10 minutes and forced Ferro into action, including having to punch a hard shot from Kinga over the crossbar.

Ferro started in goal in place of Vanina Correa who played against Germany. Catalina Perez was also back after missing the opening game because of suspension, and gave more experience to Argentina's defense.

The first half was dominated by Japan, but with few scoring chances. The best came in the third minute when fullback Kozue Ando hit the post off a corner kick.

The group finishes Monday with Germany playing Japan and England taking on Argentina.