2022 World Cup: Germany suffer Defeat To Japan

Germany kicked off their 2022 world Cup campaign on a sad note, as the European nation lost 1-2 to Japan.

Hansi Flick’s side took a first half lead through an IIkayGundogan penalty, but two goals from Japan substitutes turned it around for the Asian nation.

The Germans had covered their mouths in the prematch team photo, in protest at FIFA's stance on ‘One Love' armbands.

After Japan had an early strike disallowed for offside, Gündoganput the 2014 winners ahead from the spot, following a clumsy challenge from Japan keeper Shuichi Gonda on David Raum.

While Germany had marginally the better of the opening half, both sides were sloppy in possession at times.

Germany were indebted to a brilliant reaction save from captain Manuel Neuer in the 75th minute but soon after, Neuer could only parry Takumi Minamino's shot in to the path of Ritsu Doan, with the Freiburg forward who had come on as a substitute slamming the ball into the net.

Another substitute, Takuma Asano, completed the comeback in the 83rd minute with a fine solo effort that took advantage of some questionable Germany defending.

Flick threw on Niclas Füllkrug and Mario Götze in a bid to change the momentum but his side couldn't find the breakthrough.