Nepal were thrashed 9-2 by Japan in their opening match of the AFC U-17 Asian Cup Qualifiers in Qatar on Wednesday.

Nepal initially took the lead with Sabin Kumar Magar scoring in the 12th minute, but Japan quickly retaliated with a barrage of goals. Daichi Tani was the standout performer, netting four times in the 17th, 38th, 41st, and 61st minutes. Hiroto Asada added three goals in the 19th minute, injury time of the first half, and the 64th minute. Mibuki Kasai and Kaiji Chonan completed Japan’s scoring with goals in the 73rd and 77th minutes, respectively.

Bigyan Khadka managed a late consolation for Nepal in the 88th minute.

In an earlier match, Qatar defeated Mongolia 2-0. Nepal will next face Qatar on Friday, while Mongolia are set to play Japan.