Japan staged its second stunning turnaround of the 2022 FIFA World Cup when they beat 2010 champions Spain 2-1 with two quick-fire goals at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha, Qatar yesterday and advanced to the last 16 along with their beaten opponents.
Going into the half time break 1-0 down and on course for an early World Cup exit, Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu reorganised his side to give it more attacking bite and within six minutes, the Samurai Blue were ahead.
Ritsu Doan, one of the substitutes, hammered in a shot from the edge of the box in the 48th minute that Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon – whose poor clearance had created the danger – could not keep out.
Three minutes later, Ao Tanaka scored from close range after the other half time substitute Kaoru Mitoma cut the ball back from the goal line. The VAR system took several minutes to confirm the ball had not gone out before Mitoma’s touch, sparking wild celebrations by Japan and its fans when the verdict came in.
Spain had looked in total control in the first half but were suddenly clinging to its chance of staying in the World Cup as Costa Rica and Germany battled out their own drama in the other Group ‘E’ match.
Alvaro Morata had put the Spaniards ahead when he scored his third goal in three games, rising high above Japan’s defence to power a header past goalkeeper Shuichi Gonda in the 11th minute after a cross by Cesar Azpilicueta.
The breathtaking 2-1 win for Japan – which also beat Germany 2-1 after going behind in its opening match of the tournament – meant it topped Group ‘E’, followed by Spain in second which finished ahead of third-placed Germany only on goal difference. (C.D)