What Spain needs to qualify for the World Cup Round of 16: all possible outcomes
One group game to go and top of Group E, how well placed are Luis Enrique’s men to advance to the knockout stage?
You can follow the live action of the game between Spain and Japan on As.com.
Spain got their 2022 World Cup campaign off to a flying start by thrashing Costa Rica 7-0 in their opening game. In doing so. La Roja grabbed the attention of those who hadn’t previously noticed the talented young players in Luis Enrique’s squad. They followed that up with a 1-1 draw against Germany - despite the Iberian side looking the brighter for much of the encounter. Now thoughts turn to what is now required in the third and final game in Group E.
More from the World Cup
- La Roja vs. The Samurai Blue: who will get the win?
- Group-stage penalty shootouts at 2026 World Cup?
- Canelo Álvarez apologizes to Messi and Argentina
- Rodri: “No one plays better than Spain”
Spain need a single point, but want a win
As it stands, La Roja lead the way in the group on four points. Behind them are Japan and Costa Rica on three points each and then the Germans on a single point.
🗺️ | STANDINGS
— Sofascore (@SofascoreINT) November 27, 2022
Here's the situation in groups E and F after two rounds! ⬇️
Germany will need a win over Costa Rica, and it may not be enough for them, Croatia v Belgium will be a massive clash, while Canada is the only side that's already out.#Qatar2022 #FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/UB1V3FsUiC
A draw for Spain in the final game against Japan is enough to take them through, but a win would ensure they take top spot, potentially giving them an easier match-up in the round of 16.
If they were to lose against Japan, and Qatar is proving to be a tournament of surprise results, then they would need the other game, between Die Mannschaft and Los Ticos, to end in a draw to be sure to proceed in second place to the Asian side. If, however, Spain were to lose and Costa Rica beat Germany, the Spaniards would have to pack their bags early.
Goal difference comes into play if Spain lose and Germany win, but it would need a 7-goal swing to see Asensio, Olmo, Pedri et al exit at the first stage.