Senegal started with real attacking intent and they were rewarded as star forward Sadio Mane took full advantage of some defensive hesitancy to score after 11 minutes.
Despite enjoying more possession, Japan remained on the back foot until Takashi Inui netted just past the half-hour, with a smart curling finish from inside the penalty area.
Yuya Osako missed a golden opportunity on the hour mark, and Inui hit the crossbar minutes later as Japan’s attacking outlets found space.
Senegal made Japan pay for their profligacy as 19-year-old Moussa Wague lashed home on 71 minutes, but substitute Keisuke Honda equalised seven minutes later, finishing off Inui's cut-back pass from close range.
