Despite the drama that surrounded the Japan-Spain game in Moscow, there was a hugely satisfying result. After a hard-fought match, Japan were finally able to progress from the World Cup and win Group E. They beat Spain 2-0 and took a huge leap in the rankings. Meanwhile, Spain were eliminated from the tournament. Despite Luis Enrique’s five changes to his starting line-up, Spain could not find the breakthrough.
Japan beat Spain 2-0
Despite going into the half-time interval with the score level, Japan were able to score two goals in the first three minutes of the second half. Ritsu Doan and Ao Tanaka scored the goals to seal victory over Spain.
Alvaro Morata headed Spain’s opener in the 12th minute. He then headed Cesar Azpilicueta’s cross in the second half. His goal was the third in Spain’s opening three matches of the World Cup. Dani Olmo has now made the most passes into the box and has created the most chances at the tournament.
Morata’s header looked to be enough. But Japan’s defense was brilliant and they stayed in control. In the first half, they were the only team to create any clear chances.
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Fifa fails to provide definitive images to ITV
Despite the drama surrounding the awarding of Japan’s goal against Spain, FIFA has failed to deliver the definitive pictures to ITV. This despite the fact that some of the world’s biggest television broadcasters have shown footage from their own VAR review.
The first replay of the goal appeared to back up on-field officials’ decision. However, the optical illusion of other angles showed the ball bouncing completely beyond the line. The VAR reviewed the goal, and found it to be the correct decision.
The VAR used a photo from a camera mounted at goal-line level. This image showed a small amount of the ball overhanging the line. The VAR ruled that the ball had not crossed the line, even though it looked as if it did.
Luis Enrique makes five changes to Spain’s team
Despite finishing second in Group E, Spain lost 2-1 to Japan on Thursday. It’s the first time Spain has lost a World Cup game to a team from another continent in 20 years.
Spain opened the tournament with a 7-0 win over Costa Rica. The Spanish coach made five changes for his side, including Pau Torres, Alejandro Balde and Nico Williams.
In the first half, Spain were largely in control. However, Japan’s high pressing style briefly unsettled the Spanish defence. In the first half, there were several passing and shooting opportunities. Ultimately, Spain lacked the clinical edge to break through the Japanese defense.
The VAR played a big part in the game. A ball that was thought to have slipped out of play in the build up was confirmed to be out by the video assistant referee.
Japan’s last four goals at the World Cup have been scored by substitutes
Having defeated Germany in the Group E opener, Japan defeated Spain 2-1 to reach the Round of 16 for the first time in two World Cup tournaments. The win meant Japan were top of the group for the first time since 2002. However, the tournament would have ended on a negative note had Costa Rica beat Germany. They would have finished bottom of the group and Spain would have advanced to the knockout stage on goal difference.
Japan have made history on this occasion, becoming the first Asian team to beat a South American side at the World Cup. In their last three wins, they have scored three goals in each game.
Germany started well, taking an early lead. They scored a penalty after Gonda tripped Ilkay Gundogan. He converted his shot. After the break, Spain dominated. They created plenty of chances, including a free-kick and a corner. The Japanese defended well, though they could have been out of sight.
Germany’s early exit from the World Cup
Defending champions Germany crashed out of the World Cup at the group stage, just a year after claiming the title in Russia. The Germans, who finished second in Group F, have now failed to qualify from the group stage in the last 16 of all four tournaments they have participated in since 1954.
The group stage has already seen some surprising results, including a 1-0 victory for Argentina over Germany. A draw with Sweden and a goalless draw with Mexico helped Germany reach the knockout stage, but they failed to overcome Spain’s goal difference and finished third in the group.
The Germans went into Thursday’s game in Qatar with a one-goal advantage over Spain, but they couldn’t find a way past the goalkeeper. Serge Gnabry’s early header appeared to give Germany a favourable start, but it didn’t last. A goal by Tottenham forward Son Heung-min sealed the Germans’ fate.
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