Shinji Kagawa scored and hit the woodwork in an extraordinary Confederations Cup match with Italy but all his efforts came to naught Wednesday as Japan crashed out of the event.

"At 2-0 up we felt there were some chances for us but it was psychologically hard for us," said Manchester United star Kagawa after Japan had raced out of the blocks seeking a first ever win over the Azzurri before eventually losing 4-3.

"Finally we had the late blow of their winner and so we are sad. But Italy seized the chances they had and that was the difference," said the man of the match.