Japan is making its eighth consecutive World Cup appearance, and the tidiness of its supporters has become a hallmark recognized worldwide.
Following the 2-2 draw, spectators remained behind to ensure they left the stadium exactly as they found it, carefully gathering trash and placing it into blue plastic bags.
This practice was first instilled in elementary school, according to Japan supporter Eita Tanaka.
“We need to consider others. Japanese people believe that when we occupy a space, we were taught to leave it cleaner than when we entered,” said the 20-year-old, holding a beer and a few cups while wearing Japan’s blue jersey.
“For instance, at school in our classrooms, we clean up after ourselves without needing our teacher to instruct us.”
Japan is participating in its eighth consecutive World Cup, and the cleanliness of its fans has become an international trademark.