The Germans had the game in their hands, but they threw it away in the closing embers
Japan came from a goal deficit to defeat Germany 2-1 in their opening game of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Germany were massive favorites to beat Japan when both teams squared off at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha. They proved their quality from the start, bossing possession and attacking the Japanese with purpose.
Die Mannschaft eventually got their reward in the 33rd minute after Ilkay Gundogan converted from the spot to make it 1-0.
Kai Havertz put the ball in the net just before halftime, but it was ruled out for offside.
Nonetheless, the Germans still had momentum. However, things went off the rail in the final quarter of the game.
Ritsu Doan pulled one back for Japan in the 75th minute. Germany went all out in search of an equalizer, but they were caught off-guard.
Ko Itakura slipped the ball through to Takuma Asano, who sent a superb strike into the roof of the net to make it 2-1 for Japan and turn the game on its head.
Germany pressed hard for an equalizer, but the Japanese held on strong to see out the result.
Japan's victory is the second upset at the World Cup after Argentina's shocking loss to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.
Following the results, fans have taken to social media to share their thoughts.
The Super Eagles failed to qualify for the World Cup but after the recent shocks, some fans believe Nigeria could have ruffled some feathers if they were present.
https://twitter.com/Dabosede2/status/1595437728887443457?t=-4ndQsMLSvOk4lN0ySYvbg&s=19
This World Cup get as e be oo
— TblackG (@TblackG) November 23, 2022
https://twitter.com/industreetblogs/status/1595435583874236417?t=mX9JFfmxjF5xV6O2u_Nyqw&s=19
I think we will see many teams qualifying to the next round with 4 points ish in this World Cup.
— 'Dayo (@_Paash_) November 23, 2022
https://twitter.com/__ra_chid/status/1595434575114674178?t=OSr24w-KeszRADZYbsOZbw&s=19
https://twitter.com/CalebOlorogun/status/1595433486218919942?t=JSTy17tqlp05KAoqRBhe5Q&s=19
https://twitter.com/kunssky/status/1595433417763704838?t=5aiF-ztJwYN0T36dOeO_9w&s=19
https://twitter.com/scomeh7/status/1595433259252563973?t=0et8Vx6N_v3K_dk2GReynQ&s=19
https://twitter.com/Alaaviz9949/status/1595433246510436354?t=Yp6sStoUdDNr3fo2fGtcFQ&s=19
A world cup of Upsets, things I love to see #FIFAWorldCup #JPN
— Oluwatobi Ayinde (@Theayindetobi) November 23, 2022
https://twitter.com/drSoleus1892/status/1595432626487267331?t=J0r6SU8q3y24pOmKH0bnwA&s=19
https://twitter.com/dammiedammie35/status/1595431547431165952?t=qGQsQE2YZ3IEnYUL6_ytew&s=19
https://twitter.com/adedeji8345/status/1595431741501673473?t=3rEDWetAJutjTHo80WSi_Q&s=19
