Japan side tidied the dressing room and left a thank you in Russian
Even though they have been knocked out of the World Cup, Japan have gone on to win the hearts of football fans in Russia.
After their fans stayed behind to clean the stadium following their
last-gasp defeat to Belgium, the first-team players also left their
mark in the dressing room.
Japan, who have never won a knockout game, came so close to
producing a giant-killing after going two goals ahead in the second
half.
Japan supporters stayed behind to clear the stadium after defeat to Belgium
But their players were left distraught when Nacer Chadli scored a
94th minute winner to complete a sensational comeback for Roberto
Martinez’s side.
Despite this they made the effort the leave the changing room
immaculate and left a message in Russian, “Spasibo”, that translates to
thank you.
Genki Haraguchi and Takashi Inui had Akira Nishino’s side dreaming of a first ever World Cup quarter-final spot.
But first Jan Vertonghen’s looped header found the net, Marouane
Fellaini added a second and Chadli struck at the death to make it 3-2.
Japan’s followers helped cement their position as best guests
Images showed Japan fans with tears streaming down their faces at full-time.
But they proved they were not sore losers by cleaning up the Rostov Arena after the final whistle.
They did the same after their stunning win over Group H opponents Colombia earlier in the finals.
The scenes had been repeated in Brazil, too, four years ago.
This latest effort no doubt cements their reputation as best guests.