In the space of six second half minutes, Japan launched and completed an epic World Cup turnaround that saw them top Group E and beat Spain 2-1 on the night.
The Spanish also scraped through on goal difference thanks to Germany 4-2 win over Costa Rica, but this was a night of Japanese delight.
It was a comeback of the most unlikely proportions. How can a side lose 1-0 to Costa Rica and then beat Spain and Germany to top a group? It sounds like something so unlikely that it couldn’t ever be imagined ahead of the tournament, but this Japan team have become the neutral’s favourites as they’ve entertained us with every kick and become the centre of shocks.
The half-time changes by Hajime Moriyasu worked wonders. In the first period, Japan were so clearly second best that I’d penned a lovely piece about the resurgence of Alvaro Morata. But that one was sent to the scrap heap as Kaoru Mitoma and Ritsu Doan were introduced from the bench.
Suddenly, just as we saw in the Germany game, Japan took the game by the scruff of the neck and their opponents couldn’t cope. They were everywhere, overrunning the Spanish midfield that had passed them to death in the first half, and went 1-0 in front thanks to Morata.
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Japanese fans tidy up, say ‘thank you’ at World Cup
taipeitimes.com – Nov 28
The sight of Japanese fans at a World Cup bagging trash after a match – win or lose – always surprises non-Japanese. Japanese players are famous for doing the same in their team dressing room: hanging up towels, cleaning the floor and even leaving a thank-you note.
2022 JAPAN CUP (G1) | JRA Official
JRA公式チャンネル – Nov 27
Sunday, 27 November 2022 TOKYO
Japan Autumn International JAPAN CUP in association with LONGINES(International Invitational) (G1)
2400m, Turf
World Cup: Japan cleans up locker room after beating Germany
inquirer.net – Nov 25
Japanese courtesy was on full display again at the World Cup when the national team left their dressing room spotless with an extra touch of kindness after their incredible 2-1 comeback win against Germany on Wednesday.
Japan upsets Germany 2-1
sen.com.au – Nov 24
Japan pulled off a major upset of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar overnight.
Experiencing the amazing technique of a “female heat wave master”
Fuji News Network – Nov 22
As people become more conscious about their health, saunas that work up a sweat are booming. FNN Prime Online focuses on Atsuko Goto, a female heat wave master who supported the boom and achieved the feat of being ranked third in the world.
Japan first team to arrive in Qatar for FIFA World Cup
thesportsgrail.com – Nov 10
The first batch of players, mostly from the J-league, and officials were officially welcomed by Japanese ambassador to Qatar Satoshi Maeda at a function held at Radisson Blu Hotel Doha which will serve as Samurai Blue residence for the next few weeks.
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