News about Yuto Nagatomo

DOHA'S KATHRYN BATTE: At this World Cup, Japan has already defeated two matches. They were unintentionally winning in the group of death against Germany and Spain, but a bigger battle is pending. They must impersonate medieval warriors' spirit in order to do what they haven't done before and reach the quarter-finals. Yuto Nagatomo, a veteran actor, was delivering the news at Sunday's press conference. Nagatomo is competing in his fourth World Cup appearance and was part of the team that was defeated by Belgium in the last 16 games in Russia four years ago.

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.

After being knocked out on goal difference, England fans have revelled in Germany's shocking World Cup exit. Despite some tense moments during the match, Germany beat Costa Rica 4-2, but Hansi Flick's side was sent packing from Qatar after a dramatic 2-1 win over Spain. After reports that the ball had gone out of play before the cross was played in for Yuto Nagatomo to become the winner, there was some controversies in Japan's match with Spain.

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.