Japanese and Senegalese fans are being hailed for their civic-mindedness after they cleaned the stadiums after their teams played in the World Cup in Russia.
For its first game in the competition, Japan beat Colombia 2-1. Afterwards, instead of going straight out to celebrate, some Japanese fans cleaned the stadium’s seats and rows, as these photos show.
Despite the defeat Colombian fans congratulate the Japanese for a good win. Meanwhile the Japan supporters help cleaners pick up the rubbish left in the stadium. ???????????? #TheBeautifulGame #COL #JPN #WorldCup #Rusia2018 pic.twitter.com/QvN2YXzXk5
Sanchez (@Soccer_Sanchez) 19 juin 2018
This is my favourite moment of the World Cup so far; Japan fans picking up litter after their victory vs Columbia. The lessons in life we can take from the game. Why I support ???????? #class✅#respect✅#WorldCup pic.twitter.com/FyYLhAGDbi
Christopher McKaig (@Coachmckaig) 19 juin 2018
These excellent manners did not surprise sports journalist Scott McIntyre, who is based in Japan and is currently in Russia following the Japanese team. He told the BBC: "It’s not just part of the football culture but part of Japanese culture."
Japan is indeed known for the cleanliness of its streets, where citizens rarely litter.
Senegalese supporters also cleaned up after their country’s game against Poland, which they also won 2-1. They did their cleaning in a festive mood, as a fan told FRANCE 24:
Poland had lots more fans present in the stadium than Senegal, so we tried to make ourselves heard by blasting music and spreading a good mood. The people you can see cleaning up after the game are the “Lions” team’s official fans, called the 12e Gaïndé. They follow the players everywhere, and they’re always very festive and respectful!
Geste rare et citoyen des sénégalais qui ont nettoyé leur parcage après le match ????????????
Times Foot #WorldCup (@timesfoot_) 19 juin 2018
On peut les féliciter et encourager tous les supporters du monde à agir comme eux ???? pic.twitter.com/GJ9dAh80AP