One day after Saudi Arabia overcame Argentina, the World Cup continued to supply surprises on its fourth day after minnow Japan mounted a heroic 2:1 comeback against Germany on Wednesday.
After trailing 1:0 to Die Mannschaft, the Japanese players scored two goals in eight minutes to clinch the victory and send the stunned Germans back to the drawing board.
Germany controlled possession but struggled to break through a resolute Japanese rearguard up until they were awarded a penalty in the 33rd minute. Manchester City star Ilkay Gundogan converted from the spot.
Several substitutes Japan made in the second half helped them change the tide. SC Freiburg winger Ritsu Doan made it 1:1 after 75 minutes, and Bochum forward Takuma Asano blasted a beautiful angled drive to the top of the net in the 83rd minute to secure a famous Japanese victory.