FOOTBALL – On Sunday evening, Germany had something to make up for after their surprise defeat against Japan. Spain hoped to extend their 7-0 win over Costa Rica, but encountered more resistance than expected. Consequently, the Germany v Spain FIFA World Cup match provided some edge of the seat football for the fans.
It was an explosive game right from the start. Just 6 minutes in Pedri, Gavi, and Asensio worked well together before passing the ball wide to Olmo. From outside the box, Olmo aimed hard and fast at the goal. But Neuer got a glove to it, and sent it up hitting off the crossbar.
Another chance came for Spain after 22 minutes when Busquets played wide to Alba. But Alba´s shot at goal went wide. Spain seemed to have the upper hand up until then, but there was not much between the teams.
Offside
Once again, another good chance came for Spain in the 34th minute as Olmo squared the ball to Ferran. It looked like an easy goal to score, but Ferran missed the opportunity, and the offside flag was up in any case.
Just 5 minutes later, Germany´s Rudiger headered the ball in the back of the net. However, VAR was quick to rule it out for offside. The score remained 0-0.
Spain dominated the first half of the match and had great chances. Germany, on the other hand had significantly fewer chances, but came dangerously a number of times.
Second half
Almost 10 minutes into the second half, Morata of Spain came on to replace Ferran Torres. And it didn´t take Morata long to make an impact on the game.
Spain take the lead after an hour of play
In the 62nd minute it was finally time for Spain. Busquets played the ball down the left flank and passed to Alba. After a beautiful cross, Morata timed his shot at goal perfectly, and the ball ended in the back of the net. Following the goal, Germany stepped up the pressure, but Spain still appeared to be the more dominant side.
In the 70th minute, the German coach made a three-man change. One of the changes swapped a midfielder for a striker. This did seem to make a difference to the German side, and the ball was then more on the German side.
In the 83rd minute, Germany’s hard work was finally rewarded. Substitute Füllkrug scored the equaliser.
Excitement right to the end.
With things all square, and 6 minutes of stoppage time added, both sides were desperate to claim the 3 points. But the game remained 1-1 and both teams could only take 1 point.
Final games in the group stages
With only one game remaining for the teams in Group E, Spain currently sit top on 4 points. Japan are in second place with 3 points. Costa Rica also have 3 points, but are in third position due to goal difference. Bottom of the table is Germany on 1 point.
The next matches for this group will be played at the same time on Thursday December 1 at 8.00 pm. Japan will take on Spain, and Costa Rica will play against Germany.
For Germany to qualify, they must win against Costa Rica, and Japan must lose against Spain. If Germany win, and Japan draw against Spain, it will be down to goal difference to decide the 2 teams going forward to the round of 16.
For Spain to qualify, they need Germany to win or draw against Costa Rica. Spain also need to win or draw against Japan to secure their place.
Also read: Where can you watch the next FIFA World Cup 2022 games?
