Japan walk away with Fair Play Award

In the face of defeat, it is easier to wear a frustrated face and dress up in uncontrolled emotions perhaps resulting in regretful decisions.
But we have a leaf to borrow from the Japan team and their fans following their painful exit from the World Cup in Russia.
Japan enjoyed a surprise 2-0 lead coming off two quick goals in four minutes and at the 68th minute; there was hope that the Asian country could cause yet another upset at this already drama-filled World Cup.
But tables turned when Belgian defender Jan Vertonghen found the back of the net and substitute Marouane Fellaini equalized five minutes later!
The shock on everyone’s face when the unbelievable crossed their mind that actually the Red Devils could emerge victorious but overtime came to mind and yet the football gods had other ideas under their belt.
A remarkable set piece that saw another substitute Nacer Chadli slot home a late winner off a beautiful flick from Romelu Lukaku ended the dreams of the Japanese brigade.
It was heartbreak, complete agony and even torture but football has taught us that in the face of defeat, we stand up with heads held up high and promise that there will be sunrise at dawn.
Crestfallen and in the midst of tears and disappointment, the Japanese fans helped the workers in Rostov-on-Don to thoroughly clean the stands after the game.
This was also the scenario throughout their group games.
This gesture is one that so many of us can draw life lessons from and believe that it is never the end of the road when you are defeated. That you can pick up yourself, walk away with the positives and plan for a comeback. It is what many call “beast mode” these days.

*The writer is a journalist with SuperSport Television