The 2026 World Cup keeps delivering stories that go way beyond soccer. In Monterrey, the Japanese national team didn’t just walk away with three points after a 4-0 thrashing of Tunisia—they left an unforgettable mark at the Estadio BBVA. True to their tradition, the Samurai Blue cleaned their locker room spotless and left a handwritten note saying “Muchas gracias” alongside a paper crane origami, a symbol of peace and prosperity. This gesture, now a trademark of the Japanese squad, was met with applause from Mexican fans and international media alike.
Japan’s Heartfelt Thanks to Mexico After a Historic Night
It was a perfect night for Hajime Moriyasu and his team. Not only did they deliver a resounding victory, but the match also went down in history as the 1,000th game in World Cup history, according to FIFA. The Japanese coach couldn’t hide his excitement and, after the final whistle, shared some special words with the local crowd:
“I want to thank not only the Japanese fans who came, but also the Mexicans who cheered for Japan. As long as we’re not playing against Mexico, I hope you keep supporting our team!”
Goals, Records, and a Bond with the Fans
The match started with a bang: just four minutes in, Daichi Kamada scored a screamer that sent the stands into a frenzy. Japan’s dominance was total, with Ayase Ueda bagging a brace (31’ and 83’) and Junya Ito joining the party with a clinical finish in the 69th minute. The Mexican crowd, packing the stadium, never stopped cheering for the Asian squad, adopting them as their favorites in Monterrey.
With this result, Japan now has four points and is in a prime spot to advance to the Round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, Tunisia is out of the tournament after this tough loss, bowing out without a single win. Next up for the Samurai Blue: a showdown with Sweden in Dallas, where they’ll look to punch their ticket to the next round.
A Lesson in Respect and Soccer Culture
The Japanese gesture didn’t go unnoticed. Media outlets everywhere highlighted the spotless locker room and the thank you note, pointing out the cultural difference and the respect that defines the Japanese squad. This isn’t their first time: since Russia 2018, Japan has been setting the bar for sportsmanship and humility at every international tournament.
The connection between Mexican fans and the Asian team was real. Even before the match, the Japanese were welcomed with open arms, despite a few logistical hiccups with their training venue. On the field, they responded in style: top-level soccer, goals galore, and a sporting spirit that was contagious for everyone in the stadium.
The 2026 World Cup is proving that soccer is so much more than just a game. Gestures like Japan’s raise the bar for the tournament and show that respect and gratitude matter just as much off the field. The Samurai Blue aren’t just chasing sporting glory—they’re winning hearts with their example.
Now, with sky-high morale and the backing of a Mexican crowd that’s basically adopted them, Japan is gearing up for their next challenge. The clash with Sweden in Dallas promises plenty of drama, but no matter what happens, the Japanese have already earned the respect of the soccer world.
What’s the Big Deal About the 1,000th World Cup Match?
The showdown between Japan and Tunisia in Monterrey wasn’t just about a dominant win for the Asian side—it also marked a historic milestone: the 1,000th match in FIFA World Cup history. From the very first tournament in Uruguay in 1930 to the final in Qatar 2022, there had been 964 official matches. With the 2026 expansion to 48 teams and 104 games, this record was bound to be broken during the group stage. Beyond the milestone, the stats tell the story of Japan’s total control: a 4-0 scoreline, with goals from Daichi Kamada, a double from Ayase Ueda, and one from Junya Ito. Japan now sits pretty with four points in their group, in a great position to move on, while Tunisia heads home winless—proof of just how fierce this new-look World Cup really is.