Japanese commentators – along with the rest of the nation – lost their minds as Takuma Asano struck the winning goal to complete a stunning late comeback against four-time World Cup winners Germany.
Hansi Flick’s men dominated for large portions of their Group E opener at the Khalifa International Stadium but couldn’t build upon the first-half lead given to them by Manchester City’s Ilkay Gundogan from the penalty spot.
Germany kept Japanese goalkeeper Shūichi Gonda busy throughout, while Gundogan and Antonio Rudiger both missed presentable opportunities to extend their side’s advantage in the opening period.
Bayern Munich’s teenage sensation Jamal Musiala could have claimed one of the great World Cup goals early in the second half.
The 19-year-old winger glided past four defenders with ease as he went on a mesmerising run into the box.
READ MORE: Germany 1-2 Japan: Jamal Musiala almost scored incredible goal during defeat
However, having done all the hard work, Musiala couldn’t keep his composure. He blazed the ball over the bar with the goal seemingly at his mercy.
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Having failed to put the game to bed, there was always the chance that Japan could force their way back into the contest.
They did just that with 15 minutes remaining as substitute Ritsu Doan hit the equaliser.
Things would get far worse for Germany eight minutes later, though, when former Arsenal forward Asuno found the net from a tight angle to give Japan a shock lead.
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The stadium briefly fell silent as fans took a moment to comprehend the monumental turnaround they’d just witnessed before Samurai Blue supporters erupted with joy.
Their delight was mirrored by the Japanese broadcast team covering the match – which included former three-time World Cup veteran Keisuke Honda.
A Reddit user shared footage of the historic moment, together with subtitles, and it makes for brilliant viewing. You can check it out below.
Video: Japanese commentators’ epic reaction to shock World Cup winner v Germany
— Footy2206 (@footy66) November 24, 2022
“Goal! We’ve scored,” cries the lead commentator.
“Japan has made the comeback… the stadium has erupted into life.
“Japan just need to defend it now. We all wondered if there would be an upset. That time has come!”
With a winnable-looking game against Costa Rica to come on Sunday morning, Japan could conceivably be just 90 minutes away from securing a spot in the knockout phases.
Germany, meanwhile, face Spain later that day and look to have it all to do if they are to avoid a second-straight group stage elimination at the World Cup.
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