Germany have been dumped out of the World Cup group stages for the second successive tournament after Japan beat Spain on Thursday evening.
Japan were up to their old tricks, having already shocked Germany under the winter sun. Spain had seemed to be cruising to a routine win, but a quick one-two after half-time, and a lengthy VAR check, saw Japan flip the group on its head.
With Japan winning, Germany’s fate was out of their hands – as Spain possessed a much better goal difference. However, Costa Rica almost sent both home when they took a shock lead against Germany in the adjacent fixture.
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The Germans were shocked by Japan in their opening game, having been a goal to the good at half-time in that clash.
Hansi Flick’s side went into their second group game against the Spaniards knowing a loss would send them home without a knockout round game for the second successive tournament. Spain had battered Costa Rica 7-0, but could only manage a 1-1 draw against Germany.
Meanwhile, Japan had lost to Costa Rica earlier in the day. That result meant that all four teams could still qualify for the knockout rounds heading into the final group game.
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(Image: Sebastian Frej/MB Media)
Both Germany and Spain took the lead in their games – and both were heading through at half-time.
However both conceded two without reply in the second half, leaving a small period when both were heading home. Japan’s second was particularly controversial with VAR taking its time to decide if the ball gone over the line, but the goal stood as the whole ball hadn’t crossed the line.
Germany were able to take back the lead, eventually running out 4-2 winners. But Japan’s win over Spain meant Germany’s win was ultimately futile.
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