FIFA World Cup : Spain vs Germany

 In the first of the major clashes in this tournament two European powerhouses, Spain & Germany took field against each other. While Spain had come into the game with a resounding 7-1 victory against Costa Rica, Germany had come licking their wounds after a stunning 1-2 defeat in the hands of Japan. Earlier in the day, Costa Rica had handed Germany an unexpected reprieve, with a surprise 1-0 victory over Japan, setting the platform for a grand fight to supremacy. 

Spain in traditional red started in whirlwind fashion, with Dani Olmo almost scoring within the first few minutes, as his booming shot glanced the outstretched fingers of German keeper Neuer to hit the inside of bar & go out. Spain were their usual passing self, keeping possession & dominating the early parts of the play, as the Germans clutched thin air. However, they combined well to break the initial rhythm of the Spanish Armada, & managed to take a sniff at their opponents goal. Rudiger, did head in past Unai Simon from a freekick, but was ruled offside after VAR review. 1st half stayed goalless, as both sides looked good on the pitch. For Germany young Musiala & Gnabry looked sharp upfront, while for Spain, Pedri, Gavi & Busquets ruled the midfield & Torres was guilty of poor finishing on a couple of occasions, with an open net to tap in. 

Enrique made a crucial change bringing in Morata for a faltering Torres & this immediately paid dividends. Around the hour mark, finally Spain nosed ahead, as Busquets found Jordi Alba in the left flank & his delicious pass into the box was gleefully back tapped by Morata into the goal from a tight corner past the flailing arms of Neuer, giving Spain the vital lead 1-0. Germany kept pressing hard, as minutes ticked away, & Hansi Flick made three changes to take out Gundogan, Kherer & Muller & bring in Leroy Sane, Kolstermann & Niclas Fullkrug - this added pace in the attack, as Jamal Musiala, who tormented the Spanish defense throughout, found better combinations. Spanish keeper Unai Simon had moments of lapses along with moments of brilliance, as the determined German stormed the Spanish half, who started to get defensive & dropped their intent to go forward. Finally Musiala combined with Sane & Fullkrug, who blasted from the right side to equalise, 1-1. As they say, never take the mentally steel Germans for  granted, as they are known for their ability to come back. The match ended level, & its was a fair result for an intense game, given the match proceedings. 

Spain still remain on top of the group with 4 points, but have to face Japan in their last game, while Germans face Costa Rica, which would be an easier opponent, given the stage. All the four teams technically have a chance to qualify, as the last games next week would decide the fate.