Despite dominating the first half, Spain conceded two second-half goals to Japan, losing 1-2. Dani Carvajal’s surprising entrance at halftime left the backline weakened, which the underdogs quickly exploited. The story of the match was Spain’s inability to turn its crushing possession into goals, as it managed just five shots on target.
Unai Simon – 4
Simon allowed two goals on just three shots on target. It was a disappointing showing from the goalkeeper, who really should have kept out Ritsu Doan’s equalizer.
Pau Torres – 5
The defender, who slotted in for Aymeric Laporte, was inconsistent throughout the match. He struggled in his one-on-one defending and failed to effectively assist the defense of the channel.
Rodri – 7
The tall defender was solid at the back, cleaning up loose balls and winning aerial battles as needed.
Alejandro Balde – 8
In his first ever start for Spain, Balde played very well as the left outside-back. He dominated the talented Takefusa Kuba in the channel and took care of the ball when in possession.
Cesar Azpilicueta – 7.5
The Chelsea man sent in a wonderful cross to provide the opening assist. He picked out the open Morata in the box with precision, giving his country an early lead. However, the full-back surprisingly left the pitch at halftime, giving way to Carvajal.
Sergio Busquets – 6
As usual, Busquets kept the ball moving with quick and accurate distribution. However, he did not play many incisive long or mid-range passes to connect with Spain’s forwards.
Pedri – 6
The 20-year-old was a crucial component of Spain’s crushing first-half possession. He helped his side retain the ball with quality passing, but, like Busquets, he lacked the final pass that could create genuine chances for his country.
Gavi – 7
In the midfield, Gavi played a slightly higher role than Pedri, constantly pushing against Japan’s defense. However, he was unable to penetrate the compact Japanese backline.
Dani Olmo – 6.5
Olmo created several chances in the first half, but his influence waned significantly during the second 45 minutes.
Nico Williams – 5
Williams passed the ball exceptionally well, but he failed to consistently threaten Japan’s backline, either with crosses or on the dribble. He won the ball back several times in the midfield, but he left the pitch after Japan scored two quick goals.
Alvaro Morata – 7
Morata got Spain off to a flying start, losing his marker on a floated cross. The header was a textbook attacking finish, and his constant movement helped facilitate Spain’s offensive setup.
Japan beat Spain with just 17.7% possession, the lowest figure ???? recorded in World Cup history ? pic.twitter.com/q55lKljyq4
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) December 1, 2022
Substitutes
Dani Carvajal – 4.5
Despite Azpilicueta’s strong form in the first-half, Carvajal replaced the defender at halftime. His lack of speed showed against strong runs by Kaoru Mitoma, and Japan netted two goals within eight minutes of the veteran Real Madrid man taking the pitch.
Ferran Torres – 6
After coming on, Torres played in a right winger role, but he rotated frequently with Marco Asensio. Unfortunately for Spain, his crossing left a lot to be desired, as he struggled to connect with the forwards in the final third.