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As a result of Costa Rica’s heroics in Group E, Japan failed to take another step toward the World Cup knockout stages.
After their unexpected victory over Germany, Japan struggled against a solid defensive line before Fuller scored with Costa Rica’s first chance on goal of the competition.
The result leaves both teams on three points after two games, with Spain – who still top the group on goal difference – facing Germany later on Sunday (19:00 GMT).
Victory for Spain will all but guarantee their progression to the last 16.
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After beating Germany in their opener, many expected Japan to account for a Costa Rica side reeling from a 7-0 thrashing by Spain.
However, Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu chose to make five changes rather than stick with the same lineup, which led to a muted performance and a score that blew the group wide open.
It was a stunning victory for Costa Rica since, up until Fuller’s drive from the edge of the box that escaped goalkeeper Shuichi Gonda nine minutes from time, they had been unable to make an impression on the Japan defense.
