Even after their most incredible World Cup victory ever, Japanese fans kept up their custom of cleaning up stadiums.
In their opening match in Qatar, they defeated Germany, the four-time world champions, following a late comeback.
Midway through the first half, Manchester City star Ilkay Gundogan gave Germany the lead from the penalty spot.
Germany appeared to be headed for an easy win after that because they dominated for long stretches.
Japan beat Germany
However, Japan’s frantic turnaround in the final 30 minutes stunned the Khalifa International Stadium.
In the 75th minute, substitute Ritsu Doan scored a well-deserved equaliser.
Takuma Asano, a second substitute, then sealed the 2-1 victory by eluding the offside trap and advancing toward goal before hammering in from a tight angle.
At the final whistle, the squad, staff, and fans all seemed in shock before erupting in jubilation.
But as soon as the festivities were over, those present quickly started cleaning up.
Japanese fans were seen moving up and down the stands with transparent blue bin bags collecting trash.
It follows similar actions taken by several Japanese spectators who attended the opening World Cup match between Qatar and Ecuador.
Why do Japanese fans tidy up stadiums after games
At the conclusion of the game, they cleaned up the Al Bayt Stadium by gathering trash and fan-leftover Qatar flags.
A fan explained their actions saying: “We never leave, Japanese never leave rubbish behind us. We respect the place.”
Following their reputation for tidying up after themselves at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, Japanese fans have a reputation to uphold.
Win, lose, or draw, they always clean up after themselves and bring trash bags to games, even at the 2014 World Cup.
