SAITAMA, Japan — A late goal by defender Atsuto Uchida lifted Japan to a 1-0 win over Bahrain in Sunday's 2010 World Cup qualifier.

Uchida's header from the top of the area bounced over the head of Bahrain goalkeeper Sayed Jaffer and into the net in the 89th minute.

Both teams had already qualified for the last round which kicks-off in September, leaving only top spot in Group 2 to be decided Sunday, and Japan avenged its loss to Bahrain in their earlier qualifier in March.

"We made lots of chances and it was just a case of finishing," said Japan coach Takeshi Okada. "We will have a tough time in the final round but this team can continue to grow with each game."

Celtic playmaker Shunsuke Nakamura missed a penalty in the third minute, firing a low shot into the hands of Jaffer.