FIFA World Cup: Japan beat Spain and knock Germany out of the World Cup

Japan will encounter Croatia, while Spain will compete against Morocco in a round of 16. Japan defeated both Germany and Spain to cruise into the knockouts. 

As the world awaited results of Group E, Japan topped the table ahead of Spain, who were level on points with Germany but finished ahead of their European rivals due to a massive goal difference. 

Also briefly in contention, Costa Rica lost 4-2 and finished at the bottom of the table with three points. Japan stole the show and registered an unexpected victory due to efficient second-half substitutions.

Speaking of which, Japan's coach Hajime Moriyasu's team selections have been observed closely over the last few days. His substitutions in the second half carved out a magnificent win against Germany. 

However, the same players were benched against Costa Rica, who won the clash. He sidelined the same players from the starting 11 against Spain on Thursday. 

People wondered if Hajime Moriyasu made a mistake and Spain dominated the first half. They took a 1-0 lead after an Alvaro Morata header in the 11th minute, crushing Japan's hopes of pulling through. 

However, Japan retaliated to win the match and enter the round of 16. Hajime Moriyasu called for Ritsu Doan, one of the key players during their major German win. 

At the start of the second half, he was off the bench, which turned the tables as Ritsu Doan scored within a minute of his entry to revive Japan's hopes of still making it through. 

Spain and Germany started strong in their matches, but the former lost control as the evening progressed while Germany dominated Costa Rica at the Al Bayt stadium.

Germany were ready to advance to the knockouts as Serge Gnabry sent off a header from a brilliant cross by David Raum in the 10th minute. Despite maintaining their lead, Spain couldn't stop Japan, who were behind the 2010 champions before kick-off. 

The first half was a predictable affair, and Spain exuded exemplary sportsmanship. However, the second half started, and Japan entered the pitch with a fighting spirit.

Ritsu Doan equalised in the 48th minute as Tanaka tapped it past Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon, which initiated a massive controversy. The ball had crossed the byline before it was sent across for Ao Tanaka to score. 

After a long VAR session, the decision ruled in favour of Japan. Spain continued their bid to score an equaliser but was unable to break into the Japanese defence even after having more possession.