Japan, fans celebrate FIFA World Cup 2022 win vs Spain, knock-out qualification

Japanese fans celebrated Thursday as the country’s football team defeated Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2022 Group E match.

Following the result at Khalifa International Stadium, both teams qualified for round of 16.

Japanese players were exhausted and elated after the win, while the substitutes raced on to celebrate.

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A video was shared on Twitter showing Japanese fans bursting into tears following the big win.

“Japanese fans weep as they witness their team stun Spain and top their group, eliminating Germany. Football is at its best when it empowers fans to live out their wildest dreams and make memories they will carry forever. How can you not love this Sport?” Roger Bennett who also shared the clip wrote on Twitter.

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FIFA’s official Twitter page also shared photos showing fans celebrating the knock-out qualification.

Japan’s win also knocked out Germany for a second consecutive World Cup. Germany beat Costa Rica 4-2 but Japan’s win over Spain meant Japan won Group E with its victories over Germany and Spain. Meanwhile, Spain advanced to the knockout rounds in second via goal difference.

In Thursday’s match between Japan and Spain, the latter took an early 1-0 lead thanks to a goal by Alvaro Morata but Japan scored two goals in the first seven minutes of the second half.

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While Japan’s Ritsu Doan scored to tie the game in the 48th minute, Ao Tanaka scored a controversial goal to give Japan the lead.