Japan was bounced from the World Cup on Monday, its surprising run halted by a flurry of late Belgian goals. A team that was given little chance of advancing in the tournament reached the round of 16 and took a two-goal lead over powerful Belgium, and so the team’s sudden last-second loss left players stunned, fans speechless, and some spectators sobbing.
It was a heartbreaking way to go out, but both fans and players left a lasting impression of sportsmanship and courtesy in Russia, one that won’t be easily forgotten.
A photo that has gone viral shows that Japan’s program left behind a fastidious locker room, along with a note that said “thank you” in Russian and was signed “Japan.