Despite their 4-2 win over Costa Rica, Germany were eliminated from the FIFA World Cup in Qatar at the group stage.
Spain seemed to be pulling their punches against Japan, but they must have felt a chill run down their spine when Costa Rica scored to lead 2-1 over Germany.
Belgium exited the tournament, waived goodbye to manager Roberto Martinez, and are looking at a difficult start-over. They have only themselves to blame.
Though Morocco topped Group F, they will play Spain in the knockout stage. It has been 36 years since the last time "the Atlas Lions" went so far in the World Cup.
Players of Germany after the 4-2 win over Costa Rica in the FIFA World Cup game at Al Bayt Stadium in Qatar, December 1, 2022. /CFP
Ao Tanaka (#17) of Japan scores a header in the FIFA World Cup game against Spain at Khalifa International Stadium in Qatar, December 1, 2022. /CFP
Players of Belgium look on after the 0-0 draw against Croatia in the FIFA World Cup game at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Qatar, December 1, 2022. /CFP
Youssef En-Nesyri (#19) of Morocco shoots to score in the FIFA World Cup game against Canada at Al Thumama Stadium in Doha, Qatar, December 1, 2022. /CFP
Host: Li Xiang
Guest: Josh McNally
Cover designer: Feng Yuan
Chief editor: Chen Ran
Supervisor: Zhang Shilei