Germany, who had been leading 1-0 at the time, was startled by an amazing move in the 75th minute. It was a succession of actions leading up to the goal that were more stunning and game-changing than the goal itself or Mitamo's exquisite pass that started the play. It was Hajime Moriyasu's substitutes, specifically.
When Japan equalised in the 75th minute, the situation quickly changed. After Minamino had been on the field for less than a minute, all three of the players involved in the first goal were introduced off the bench in the second half. Kauro Mitoma started the move with a pass that expertly cut through Germany's left channel before finding Takumi Minamino. The AS Monaco player launched a shot that resembled a cross more than anything else, but Manuel Neuer was quick enough to deflect it. Ritsu Doan, who slid the ball past the goalkeeper from six yards out, was the only one his save could stop. In the 83rd minute, Bundesliga player Asano struck the winner. On the right side, he skillfully controlled a long, floating ball, outmuscled Nico Scholtterbeck who attempted to push him away from goal, and then fired a strong right-footed shot that beat Neuer at the near post.
Moriyasu stayed in the dugout, flashing a wide smile, his brave substitutions that masterminded a famous Japan win. A result that has put his team within reach of a Round of 16.