Germany was eliminated from the 2022 World Cup because Japan’s result against Spain sent Japan and Spain through instead ; Germany’s 4–2 win over Costa Rica wasn’t enough on goal difference.

What happened

  • Germany finished the group stage tied on points in Group E.
  • Japan beat Spain 2–1, which changed the standings and knocked Germany out.
  • Germany still exited despite beating Costa Rica 4–2 in their final match.

In one line

The team that effectively eliminated Germany was Japan , through its win over Spain.