Japan and Spain advanced from Group E of the 2022 Men’s World Cup. Germany and Costa Rica were eliminated.

Japan started their tournament with a 2-1 win over Germany. After trailing 1-0, the Samurai Blue scored twice in the last twenty minutes through Ritsu DŌAN and Takuma ASANO. A 1-0 loss to Costa Rica left them needing the full three points in their last encounter with Spain. Though trailing again at halftime, Dōan and Ao TANAKA found net in the first six minutes of the second half. The second goal was allowed after a video review indicating that the ball’s edge was still on the end line when Kaoru MITOMA played it in to Tanaka.

Six players scored in Spain’s 7-0 win over Costa Rica, but after a 1-1 draw with Germany, la Furia Roja’s place in the last sixteen was still in the balance. Despite the loss to Japan, Spain advanced in second place, as Germany’s 4-2 win over the Ticos was insufficient to overtake them on goal difference.

Japan will face Croatia in the round of 16 on MON 05 DEC 2022. Spain will take on their Strait of Gibraltar rivals Morocco the following day.