Germany was once shocked by Japan during this World Cup. On Friday, they did it once more, upsetting Spain in the process. Additionally, they performed it at the Khalifa International Stadium, which is the same location.
In one of the most dramatic games in World Cup history, the Asian powers defeated the 2010 champions Spain 2-1 and eliminated the 2014 champions Germany, who were eliminated from the tournament for the second time in a row in the group stage.
Spain controlled the first half and put Japan on the verge of elimination with a header from Alvaro Morata in the 11th minute. After Doan's equaliser in the 48th minute, Japan came out firing, and three minutes later Tanaka lobbed the ball past Unai Simon in the Spain goal. Spain made a strong effort to score an equaliser, but despite maintaining possession, they were unable to get past the Japanese defence. Japan survived a close loss to prevail and advance to the Round of 16.