Alvaro Morata headed Spain into the lead in the 11th minute, and the future was looking bleak for Japan at half-time. The Blue Samurai returned after the break knowing that they needed a win since Germany were 1-0 up against Costa Rica. Then Kaoru Mitoma chased a ball to the byline before cutting it back for Ao Tanaka to make it 2-1. The goal was crucial, as Japan needed a win to qualify since Germany beat Costa Rica 4-2. Japan finished top of Group E and will face Croatia in the round of 16, while second-place Spain will play Morocco.
