News about Hiroki Sakai

As Japan takes on Croatia in the last-16 on Monday, they will attempt to make history by making the quarter-finals of the World Cup for the first time. Japan appeared to have their work cut out to reach the knockout stages after being placed in a consortium with Spain and Germany, but they did win both European giants, despite losing to Costa Rica in between. It's been far from simple for Japan to progress to this round, and the two nations will be desperate for their fairytale run to continue.

Group E will come to an end, with all four squads still in with a chance of qualifying for the final-16. Costa Rica reacted in style from their 7-0 loss at the hands of Spain to beat Japan, while Germany salvaged a late draw against Spain in order to keep their slim hopes alive. It means that Spain and Japan will clash in their last game, with both needing results to ensure they succeed. Sportsmail tells you what you need to hear about the Japan vs. Spain clash.

As Japan takes on Costa Rica at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium on Sunday afternoon, they will be hoping to make it two wins from two victories. Costa Rica will be looking for revenge against Japan, having lost 7-0 to Spain in their first game of the tournament. Well, with the match fast approaching, Sportsmail takes you through everything you need to hear about the Group E game.

The Samurai Blue came from 1-0 down to defeat Germany in arguably the biggest upset of the tournament so far, with jubilant scenes from the players and staff alike. Saudi Arabi came from one down to defeat Argentina on Tuesday, and Sakai praised his team's Asian rivals for assisting his team in believing in themselves. Japan will now fear qualifying from Group E, with Spain's favorites to win the first stage.