Japan and its fans give us the classiest World Cup exit we could hope for

Marcus Gilmer
Updated

While Monday's World Cup action gave us some typical Neymar antics, it also delivered a bittersweet moment of class. It happened following Japan's heartbreaking loss to Belgium. 

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After going up 2-0 in an enormous upset bid, Japan gave up the next three goals, including Belgium's game-winner in the closing moments. The 3-2 loss ended Japan's World Cup run. It's a run in which Japan's fans have been bonding with other fans over anime, and going above and beyond by cleaning stadiums after matches. 

On Monday, despite the painful loss, the Japanese national team stuck around to give their fans the ovation they deserved. The fans, in return, showered cheers on a magical tournament run. 

Japan's team bowed to fans, despite their obvious heartbreak.
Japan's team bowed to fans, despite their obvious heartbreak.

Image: Petr David Josek/AP/REX/Shutterstock

It's a team grateful for the support of its fanbase.
It's a team grateful for the support of its fanbase.

Image: Getty Images

The Japanese fans captivated World Cup watchers with their costumes and spirit.
The Japanese fans captivated World Cup watchers with their costumes and spirit.

Image: Petr David Josek/AP/REX/Shutterstock

Japan takes a bow on its exit from the World Cup
Japan takes a bow on its exit from the World Cup

Image: Hassan Ammar/AP/REX/Shutterstock

Afterward, Japanese fans got right back to cleaning the stadium, leaving their golden reputation at this World Cup intact even in the face of defeat. 

Right back at it, no matter the result.
Right back at it, no matter the result.

Image: Getty Images

If only the rest of the world were this gracious. 

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