Did it cross the line? Germany out on dramatic night

That is the age-old World Cup question for Germany, who crashed out as Japan beat Spain thanks to an opinion-dividing winner that left many scratching their heads.

The controversy evoked memories of Frank Lampard's "ghost goal" against Germany in 2010, when England went out in the last 16, and - no doubt for German fans of a certain vintage - of 1966 and Geoff Hurst's extra-time effort when England won the World Cup.

In Qatar, those three points for Japan meant Germany were out, the four-time winners falling at the group stage for a second consecutive tournament.

At the break Germany had a comfortable 1-0 lead over Costa Rica, with Spain also winning 1-0 as both European sides seemed to be cruising into the last 16.

With just under 40 minutes to go Germany and Costa Rica were going out.

Defeat for Spain wasn't a disaster, unless Costa Rica - then 1-0 down to Germany - took the lead.

But Costa Rica equalised in the 58th minute, and after 70 minutes they were ahead.

At 2-1 Costa Rica were suddenly set to advance with Japan at Spain's expense.

"There were huge roars here from the Japan fans when the big screen flashed up what the group looked like with Costa Rica winning...

but then seconds later the Spain fans to my right celebrated wildly after hearing that Germany had equalised.".

But, as long as Japan held on to all three points against Spain, the champions in 2014 would go out.

Germany and Costa Rica were out.

Spain boss Enrique said he was not aware his side were on course to head out of the tournament when Costa Rica led Germany.

Japan score through Ao Tanaka to take the lead against Spain after a VAR check determines the ball did not go out of play as it was pulled back across goal

Germany crash out of the World Cup on a remarkable night of drama despite a 4-2 victory over Costa Rica at Al Bayt Stadium