World Cup: Japan beat Spain to qualify for last 16 as Germany crash out

Japan came from a goal down to defeat Spain 2-1 in their final Group E match at the Khalifa International Stadium on Thursday night.

The win means the Blue Samurai of Japan sail through to the round of 16 as group leaders and at the expense of Germany who crashed out at the group stage.

After delivering arguably the shock of the tournament during the first Group E match against Germany, lightning struck again in the same place as the Asians scored twice in the second half to cancel out Spain’s first-half strike.

Alvaro Morata gave Spain the lead in 11 minutes and Japan waited till three minutes into the second half to restore parity through Ritsu Doan’s thunderous shot following sloppy possession by Spain.

Ao Tanaka then scored what proved to be the precious winner in 51 minutes.

The victory sees Japan finish Group E in the first position with six points from three matches, ahead of Spain who had five points.

Japan qualify for the round of 16 in consecutive World Cups for the first time in their history.

It is also their fourth appearance in the knockout stage in their World Cup history.

Germany was the biggest loser on the night, crashing out of the Qatar 2022 World Cup despite overcoming Costa Rica 4-2.

Die Mannschaft have also crashed out at the group stage in consecutive World Cups for the first time in their history.

RESULTS

• Japan 2-1 Spain
• Costa Rica 2-4 Germany