Opabunmi was a second half substitute

Nigeria's preparations for next year's Nations Cup finals continued with a 3-0 defeat to Japan in a friendly in Tokyo on Wednesday.

The Super Eagles, playing without some of their key players, including captain Jay-Jay Okocha, were no match for the full-strength home side.

Germany-based striker Naohiro Takahara struck twice in the first half, as Brazilian legend Zico got his first victory on home soil since taking over as coach.

Takahara got the opening goal in the first minute with a fierce drive and scored again with a well-directed header in the 39th minute.

Nigeria had their best chance 13 minutes after the break, when Benedict Akwuegbu's strike went into the hands of goalkeeper Hitoshi Sogahata.

Japan sealed the confidence-boosting win midway through the second half with a goal by midfielder Yasuhito Endo.

Nigerian coach Christian Chukwu praised Japan's performance but said he was not too concerned by the defeat, given that he expected only two of Wednesday's 11 to make it into the team for the Nations Cup.

He said: "Some players weren't released by their clubs and some had injuries so we had to make arrangements to get some young players from nearby countries so that we can honour this match."

Nigeria drew 2-2 with Japan when they met in the English town of Southampton two years ago.