Japan are poised to win their first-ever Asian Games men's soccer gold medal when they face the United Arab Emirates on Thursday.

"We have won all the matches in group rounds, which is fundamental to our final match," Japan head coach Takashi Sekizuka told a press conference Wednesdy afternoon. "Our team keeps improving. I think they're well-prepared for the final."

Japan came from one goal behind to edge past four-time champions Iran 2-1 on Tuesday to book their final spot, while the UAE eliminated South Korea with the last kick of extra-time to advance.

"I have watched them (UAE) closely in their group matches. They are a good team and well organized," said Sekizuka. "We want to fight it out with them in our own style of soccer."

Japan's previous best-ever Asian Games result was the silver medal after losing to Iran in the final in 2002.

(Xinhua News Agency November 25, 2010)