2022 FIFA WORLD CUP — In a heated World Cup 2022 debut, Japanese football fans celebrated their team’s shocking triumph, winning against Germany in Qatar at the Khalifa International Stadium.
Edited by Abdullah Abbasi, The Viking View Editor.
MATCHCENTER File photo, Takuma Asano for Team Japan (Blue)
Having won the world cup in 2014, Germany came into this one as one of the favourites, but ended up losing 2-1 to Japan.
Momentum seemed to be with Germany in the first half, Japan suddenly took the lead during the second. Japan’s scorching winning goal came in the 83rd minute from substitute striker Takuma Asano.
The atmosphere quickly lifted, and the Japanese team held their lead until victory. Fans of Germany were disheartened by the match but trusted in their beloved team’s ability to rebound. Moreover, the win comes right at the heels of Saudi Arabia’s victory over Argentina, another historical upset.
Japan now sits 2nd behind Spain, who are also in their group. However, Japanese fans strongly believe they may aim for World Cup glory.
Additionally, there is still warmth to share for both teams. Japanese fans are praised for staying behind to clean the Khalifa International Stadium. As soon as the stadium started to empty, Japanese supporters could be seen taking out light blue disposable rubbish bags and getting to work.
While the sight of spectators staying back to clean up may surprise many, it is not out of the ordinary for the Japanese.
Finally, view highlights of the game below.