Germany are knocked out of World Cup at group stage once again

Germany exited the World Cup at the group stage for the second time running despite coming from behind to beat Costa Rica 4-2 on Thursday. 

Japan's win over Spain meant a win was not enough for Germany to reach the last 16, who finish third behind Spain on goal difference. 

Serge Gnabry had given Hansi Flick's side an early lead in a game they needed to win to have any chance of remaining in the World Cup. 

Japan's turnaround meant even a win, unless by at least seven goals, would not have been enough for Germany, though, and things got worse when Costa Rica came from behind themselves. 

Yeltsin Tejeda drew Los Ticos level and when a Manuel Neuer own goal made it 2-1 in the 70th minute, both Germany and Spain were heading out of the World Cup in the group stage. 

Germany roared back, though, with three goals in the final 20 minutes, two from Kai Havertz and one from Niclas Fullkrug to wrap up the three points. 

That meant Spain progressed but Spain did not return the favour. A La Roja equaliser against Japan would have sent Germany through, but it never arrived and the 2014 world champions are out.