Japan stun Spain to secure World Cup last 16 spot

Japan staged their second stunning turnaround of the World Cup when they beat 2010 champions Spain 2-1 with two quick-fire goals and advanced to the last 16 along with their beaten opponents.

Spain had looked in total control at half-time after taking the lead through Alvaro Morata's early header.

Japan, though, turned things around in the space of five minutes at the start of the second half when substitute Ritsu Doan equalised before Ao Tanaka netted another - which was allowed to stand following a lengthy VAR review after the ball had appeared to have gone out of play.

Japan, who had opened their campaign with a shock win against Germany but then were beaten by Costa Rica, almost snatched an early lead when Junya Ito fired into the side-netting.

Spain went in front in the 11th minute when Morata headed in a cross from the right by Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta for his third goal of the tournament.

As news came through of Germany scoring an early goal against Costa Rica, the Samurai Blue fans became subdued, mirroring their team on the pitch.

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There was a rare moment of action in the Spain penalty area just after the half-hour mark when goalkeeper Unai Simon dwelt on the ball a bit too long, and Daizen Maeda almost capitalised.

Spain continued to dominate possession and although it looked only a matter of time before they would open up the Japan defence again, there were no more goals ahead of the break.

Japan coach Hajime Moriyasu made a double change for the second