"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
"Dream, Dream, Dream! Conduct these dreams into thoughts, and then transform them into action."
- Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
8 Dec 2022
The Japanese fans’ cleaning up of stadiums and the coach’s humble gesture even after their defeat and exit from the FIFA World Cup have left a lasting impression on the world.
Japan lost to Croatia in a penalty shootout causing heartbreak for the fourth time in six tries, in the Round of 16. The score remained tied at the end of the game, so the two teams lined up to take penalty kicks to determine the outcome. However, the Europeans scored three of their penalties while Japan missed three of its own, eliminating the Asian giant. However, even though the Cup eluded Japan, the country returns home having won innumerable hearts.
Japan not only excelled on the field, but the team and its fans also served as excellent role models off the field.
The Japanese players cleaned up their locker area and left it nicer than when they found it after pulling off an amazing 2-1 comeback victory against the powerful Germans. In the spotless locker area, the players also wrote a note of gratitude in Arabic and kept a sweet piece of origami art.
The Japanese spectators weren’t far behind when it came to the cleaning act. The Japanese supporters picked up the trash left behind after every game they went to, whether it featured their team or not.
They again displayed heart, when, after losing to Croatia in the cruelest of ways, Japanese coach Hajime Moriyasu bowed in gratitude to the devoted traveling supporters who made the trip to Qatar to cheer on their team.
.jpeg)