Japan fans use blue bags to uphold a cleansing World Cup tradition after draw

Following Japan's 2-2 draw against the Netherlands in Arlington, Texas, Japanese fans continued a World Cup tradition by cleaning up trash in the stadium. The blue bags, initially used for celebrations after goals, were later employed to collect litter from the stands. This practice, which began during Japan's 1998 World Cup appearance in France, has been observed at every tournament since. The fans' efforts left AT&T Stadium notably clean after the match, reducing the usual cleanup burden for stadium workers.

Following their World Cup opener against the Netherlands in Texas on Sunday, Japanese fans were observed cleaning the stadium stands. Spectators remained after the 2-2 draw to meticulously pick up litter and place it into blue plastic bags, leaving the area spotless. A fan explained this practice is rooted in Japanese culture, learned from primary school, where individuals are taught to leave a place tidier than they found it. This habit of tidiness has become a notable characteristic of Japanese fans at international events.

Japan and the Netherlands drew 2-2 in their opening Group F match of the World Cup in Texas. Asia's most successful side, Japan, twice came from behind to secure the draw. Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk scored first with a header, but Keito Nakamura quickly equalized for Japan. Crysencio Summerville then put the Dutch ahead again with a curled finish, only for Daichi Kamada to score an 88th-minute equalizer for Japan after a deflection. Both teams were without key injured players but are considered potential dark horses in the tournament.