At World Cup, Japanese team can't bag goals _ but fans bag trash

by  Associated Press Japan team can't bag goals _ but fans bag trash Associated Press - 19 June 2014 22:31-04:00

NATAL, Brazil (AP) — Japan's fans are among the world's most spirited during a match — and polite after it.

For the straight second match, fans of the Blue Samurai shrugged off disappointment and cleaned up after themselves inside the stadium following the final whistle. It's a class act that has its roots in Japan's values of being respectful of hosts and protecting the environment.

Japan lost their opening match 2-1 to Ivory Coast, and drew 0-0 with Greece on Thursday in a game they could have easily won.

Many fans of other teams might be tempted to go on a rampage after such results.

Japan's supporters pick up their garbage.

News Topics: Sports, 2014 FIFA World Cup, FIFA World Cup, International soccer, Men's soccer, Soccer, Events, Men's sports

People, Places and Companies: Brazil, South America, Latin America and Caribbean, Japan, East Asia, Asia

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