Japanese Media: Chinese Fans Cheer for Japan's Team!
Japan's Jiji Press reported on June 26: Japan national football team coach Hajime Moriyasu said, "I hope Japan's progress in the World Cup will inspire other Asian teams."
Japanese media relayed an AFP report stating, "Japan defeated Tunisia, and Chinese fans cheered for Japan."
The Japanese media noted that despite tense Sino-Japanese relations, some Chinese fans temporarily set aside their grievances, cheering wildly when Japan thrashed Tunisia 4-0.
On the 25th, Japan drew 1-1 with Sweden in their final group F match, setting up their first knockout stage clash against Brazil.
At the post-match press conference, when asked by an AFP reporter whether Japan’s success could influence football across Asia, Coach Moriyasu replied: "As a member of the Japanese national team, I am proud of our performance. After fighting hard through the Asian qualifiers to earn our World Cup spot, we now represent Asia on this global stage. Especially in the second round, historically it has been difficult for Asian teams to break through. Although we didn’t beat Sweden today, we focused on delivering an exciting game, giving confidence and courage to people across Asia, becoming a beacon of hope for Asian football."
"I hope that in the future, Asian football as a whole can achieve a higher level on the world stage than other continents."
This World Cup, Australia secured a place among the last 32 by finishing second in Group D, while South Korea still has a chance to advance to the knockout stage. Iran has one match remaining.
The Japanese media also noted that China’s only previous appearance at the World Cup was at the 2002 FIFA World Cup hosted by Japan and South Korea, after which they have not qualified since.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1869068636401802/
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