Doha: Another World Cup day, another World Cup shock. Substitutes Ritsu Doan and Takuma Asano scored late goals today to give Japan a come-from-behind 2-1 victory over Germany.
Both Doan and Asano play for German clubs.
“I believe it’s a historic moment, a historic victory. If I think about the development of Japanese soccer, thinking of players, for them this was a big surprise,” said Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu, who had five Germany-based players in his starting line-up and three, including the scorers, on the bench.
“They’re fighting in a very strong, tough, prestigious league. They’ve been building up their strength. In that context we believe that those divisions (Bundesliga and second division) have been contributing to the development of Japanese players,” Moriyasu said. “I’m very grateful for that.”
Ilkay Gündogan had given four-time champion Germany the lead with a first-half penalty. But Doan, who plays for Freiburg, pounced on a rebound to equalize in the 76th minute after Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer blocked a shot from Takumi Minamino.
Then Asano, who plays for Bochum, sprinted clear of Nico Schlotterbeck and beat Neuer from a narrow angle in the 83rd minute of the first competitive meeting between the two nations.
Germany was playing at the World Cup for the first time since its shocking group-stage exit as defending champion in 2018, while Japan is appearing in its seventh straight World Cup and is looking to reach the quarterfinals for the first time.
more recommended stories
Lionel Messi announces his retirement from international footballLionel Messi said on Monday he.
Oman Football Association and Jindal Launch Fan Engagement InitiativeRO132,500 in Prizes Announced to Boost.
Jindal League 2026/27 Kicks Off Tomorrow with Three MatchesThree Matches to Open Jindal League.
Oman National Team Begins Final Preparations for Gulf Cup 2026Oman National Football Team Intensifies Preparations.
Yan Diomandé Reports to RB Leipzig as Real Madrid Move NearsLeipzig: Ivorian winger Yan Diomandé joined.
Chelsea Sign England Midfielder Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa Until 2033London: Chelsea have completed the signing.
Mbappé Leads 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot Race with 10 GoalsWorld Cup 2026 Golden Boot Standings:.
Women’s Futsal League to Kick Off in Muscat This SeptemberOFA Announces Women’s Futsal League Draw.
Real Madrid Complete €20 Million Deal for Denzel DumfriesMadrid: Real Madrid have completed the.
World Cup Round of 32 Continues with Belgium, USA and Spain in ActionThree Round of 32 Matches Set.



