Qatar 2022: Costa Rica Reshuffles Group E With Win Over Japan

The one-nil victory for Costa Rica against Japan on Sunday at the Al-Rayyan reshuffles the cards in group E.

Germany who had lost against Japan and shared the spoils against Spain later in the evening, miraculously have a chance.

Though under duress, Keylor Navas’ Costa Rica maintained their World Cup hope on Sunday, November 27, by defeating Japan at the very end of the game.

During the match dubbed ‘Capital’, the Ticos first had to defend as they were under massive pressure from Japan, before coming back to pip their opponents in the 81st minute, courtesy a goal from defender Keysher Fuller.

The Central Americans scored with their only shot on target as the Samurai Blue could not find a way pass Keylor Navas.

The Costa Rican skipper who conceded 7 against Spain showed his experience and talent to ensure his team’s first victory at this World Cup.

Imperial in his area, the Paris Saint-Germain keeper kept goal all evening as he began with a magnificent save from Yuki Soma before the pose, and at the end of the match, kept out a close range attempt from Takuma Asano.

Costa Rica thus gets its first three points of the tournament, and climbs to third place in group E.

Japan, still second, counts the same total as its opponent of the day. Spain are first as the Japanese will face Spain in their last group game.

The future of the Ticos in this tournament will be decided in their last group match, against Germany.

The Germans are still in it despite their position. They absolutely need a victory against Costa Rica on the final day and hope Spain can defeat Japan.