World Cup: Germany rescue point against Spain to keep round of 16 hopes alive

Germany are still in with a chance of making it to the round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup after an 83rd minute goal from Niclas Füllkrug helped them earn a 1-1 draw against Spain.

Germany came from behind to rescue a 1-1 draw against Spain, with Werder Bremen striker Niclas Füllkrug coming off the bench and scoring an 83rd minute equaliser. It was another underwhelming performance from Hansi Flick’s side. But Füllkrug’s goal keeps them in the hunt for a place in the FIFA World Cup round of 16.

Both sides came close to scoring in what was a blistering first half. Dani Olmo was denied by the crossbar, while Antonio Rüdiger had a goal ruled out by VAR. Spain took the lead in the 63rd minute, with Alvaro Morata getting ahead of Borussia Dortmund defender Niklas Süle and turning Jordi Alba’s cross into the back of the net.

With Germany facing another group stage exit at the World Cup, Hansi Flick decided to bring on Leroy Sané and Niclas Füllkrug. And the latter made a big impact as he found the top corner with a thumping effort to make it 1-1 in the 83rd minute.

The game ended 1-1, leaving Group E wide open going into the final round of fixtures. In order to qualify for the round of 16, Germany must beat Costa Rica on Thursday and hope that Japan lose to Spain. A draw between Japan and Spain would also help Germany qualify, as long as they manage to beat Costa Rica by two or more goals.