On 2 December 2022, Japan took on Spain in the ongoing FIFA World Cup. It was a Group E encounter that took place in Khalifa International Stadium. However, both the teams had chances to get qualified for the next round. Spain needed atleast a draw while it was a must-win game for Japan.
So, fans were hoping for a great battle between the teams. Meanwhile, Japan surprised everyone as they defeated Spain 2-1. With that win, Japan sealed the top spot at the table and qualified for the Round of 16. But, their second goal made headlines as fans believed that the ball was already out of the line when Kaoru Mitoma crossed for Tanaka on the stretch. Now, new images have gone viral which proved the goal was right to stand.
Here is the image:
New images released shows controversial Japan goal vs Spain was RIGHT to stand. pic.twitter.com/RvNo89aUP7
— SPORTbible (@sportbible) December 2, 2022
Japan defeated both Spain and Germany in their group in this FIFA World Cup
Speaking about that goal, first, the goal was denied. Then, VAR checked it and confirmed that goal for Japan. However, broadcasters showed some initial images it seemed as though the ball was over the byline. But, now different angles and a 4K picture have shown that it was in fact in by the slightest of margins.
Speaking about that, former Premier League referee Peter Walton said: “There’s a misconception in law that just because the part of the ball that is on the floor is over the line is out – well it clearly isn’t because it’s the curve of the ball. We see it often with corner kicks where it’s over the line but not quite over the line. In this instance, what the VAR is looking for is the evidence to suggest to the referee that the ball has clearly left the field of play and on the evidence that we’re seeing, he doesn’t have that in front of him.”
Speaking of the match, Alvaro Morata scored the opener in the 10th minute for Spain. Then, Ritsu Doan scored the equalizer in the 48th minute for Japan. Then, in the 51st minute, Ao Tanaka doubled the lead through that controversial goal. However, they managed to hold the lead and the game ended 2-1 in favor of Japan. Thus, Japan emerged as the table-toppers over Spain while Germany got knocked out of the tournament.
