DOHA, Nov 24 (sen.com.au) - Japan pulled off a major upset of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar overnight.
The Asian nation defeated European giant Germany 2-1 in their Group E opener at the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha.
Die Mannschaft, winner of the 2014 World Cup, largely dominated proceedings with 26 shots on goal and over 70 per cent of possession, but the Blue Samurai was more efficient in the end.
Ilkay Gundogan drew first blood from the penalty spot in the 33rd minute after Japan goalkeeper Shuici Gonda had clumsily fouled left-back David Raum, who had floated forward.
Germany then had a close-range finish from Kai Havertz chalked off by VAR for offside after Japan had similarly seen a goal disallowed earlier.
But the Japanese wouldn’t be denied when substitute Ritsu Doan followed up a Manuel Neuer save to turn in an equaliser on 75 minutes.
Then it was another second-half sub in the form of Takuma Asano who made himself the hero. He produced a superb solo effort, controlling a lofted ball before advancing deep into the area and beating Neuer from a tight angle. ...continue reading
