Spain kicked off the World Cup 2022 campaign with the biggest-margin victory so far, but yet their knockout fate is hanging on the final-round fixtures of Group E that has become a death pit for the two former champions, including Germany.
Japan's surprising win over Germany, followed by a defeat against Costa Rica despite a dominating performance, and then Germany's comeback draw with Spain have made the group even more interesting.
A win or a draw will lift Spain, who are currently leading the points table, but an unlikely defeat to Japan will leave them relying on their currently superior goal difference to progress, unless Costa Rica beat Germany, in which case Luis Enrique's side will be out.
But Germany's win may not be enough if Japan win or draw, which would take the equation to goal difference.
Victory over Costa Rica, coupled with a win for Spain, will see them qualify but all other results would see Hansi Flick's men out of the competition.
The four-time champions will try hard on the pitch not to see repeat of the same outcome of Russia World Cup 2018 where they were knocked out from the group stages, and that may cause another defeat for Costa Rica, who have been one of the most inconsistent performers of the tournament thus far.
Taking motivation from Brazil World Cup 2014 when they reached the quarter-finals for the first time in history, Costa Rica can still reach the last 16 by simply defeating Germany.
A draw would also guarantee a spot if Spain overcome Japan, but if the group leaders are beaten then goal difference comes into play.
A draw in both games, or a defeat, puts them out.
Japan have been contesting at every World Cup since 1998 and made it to the Round of 16 three times, but it never happened twice in a row.
But this could change if they continue the way they played the first two games, and then any outcome is possible against Spain who ran riot against Costa Rica 7-0 in their group opener.
The Samurai Blue can go through with victory, while a draw, coupled with another draw between Costa Rica and Germany, will ensure they progress.
They will go out if they are beaten, or if the match ends in a draw and Costa Rica beat Germany.
Goal difference will be required to decide their fate if they draw and Germany are victorious.
