Despite the advantage of home turf, two-time world champion Kento Momota said he was aware he would not have it easy at the ongoing World Championships after being given a stern first test by his Brazilian opponent.

Momota eventually closed out the match 21-16, 21-14, but he was put through his paces by Lino Munoz, ranked 80 spots below him on the world rankings at 82nd.

The Japanese had to sustain late pressure by Munoz before winning the first game, and was locked in a point for point battle in the second until he led 11-10 at the interval.

He cruised on after that, flashing a relieved smile after sealing the winning point, and took time to acknowledge the fans on his way out.

"I was nervous at first, but after that I managed to settle down and get into some rhythm in the match," he said.

Momota will be desperate to do well in front of his home fans after dealing with several early exits this year.

He produced his best result by reaching the Malaysia Open final in June, but was thoroughly outclassed by Viktor Axelsen to the title.

He then lost in the Malaysia Masters second round, which was his last competitive action before this event.

Prior to this match, Momota admitted he was still not up to par in competitive matches.

He would be hoping to use the momentum of Monday’s win against India’s H.S. Prannoy in the second round, who is more than capable of dishing out an upset against the second seed.

Momota withdrew from last year's edition in Huelva, Spain, due to an injury.