In the World Cup, Japan once again staged a spectacular comeback to beat Spain 2-1 and advance to the round of 16. Despite being the underdogs in the match, with only 17.7% of the ball in Opta's possession, Japan launched a frantic three-minute counterattack in the second half, scoring two goals in a row to set a new World Cup record for the lowest percentage of possession in the history of the tournament and yet still winning.
The Japanese team leader Mori Baoichi, who was criticized by the fans, was once called "God" after the first match against Germany, but became a target again in the second round against Costa Rica. However, in this game, he boldly adjusted the lineup at halftime, replacing Don Yasunori and Kaoru Sanfelt, the two directly or indirectly produced two goals, to help the team maintain the lead, Mori Baoichi also therefore re-emerged as a "god".
After the match, Mori Boichi said with confidence, "It was a very tough game, the players fought tenaciously and their performance in the first half set the stage for our victory in the second half. This game proved our determination to show our resolve on the world stage, and now everyone is starting to see a different Japan team, and we are aiming to reach the last 8." Japan has reached the last 16 of the World Cup on three occasions, only to exit. If they can beat Croatia in their next match, they will record their best ever result at a World Cup.
