Japan's World Cup Win over Germany Brings a Manga To Life

It’s a story very few may believe unless they witnessed it. Japan looked like they were on the backend of things but managed to hold on for dear life. Until the German giants shook their defence to the core, winning a penalty 30 minutes into the game.

In moments like these, the only hope is that the goalkeeper can do something incredible by keeping that ball from hitting the back of the net. However, İlkay Gündoğan eased his way passed Japan’s keeper, giving Germany the lead.

Suddenly, an earlier goal by Daizen Maeda that was eventually disallowed, looked like a painful missed opportunity. One that they would regret.

Still, that did little to slow the Samurai Blue down. Whilst the first half of the game certainly didn’t favour them, things took a dramatic turn in the second half, as they took charge and showed us what fighting hearts can achieve.

There may have been some showboating from one of Germany's best defenders, Antonio Rüdiger - who changed his run into an awkward high knee stride as he ran alongside Asano and appeared to laugh. He has since been called out for his "unprofessionalism" and "arrogance" by former German footballer, Dietmar Hamann, who said "there is only one team laughing now."

He certainly didn't mince his words, stating:

Rudiger lifts up his legs. You don't belittle the opposition [like that] because it always comes back at some stage.

I think it was very unprofessional. I think it was out of order. Arrogant. He was having a laugh, there's only one team having a laugh now.

The spirit of the game is about respecting the opposition, respecting your opponent. And he didn't do it. I've got no explanation or excuse for it.

Japan went on to equalize in the 75th minute, after having applied so much pressure to the point that it was only deserved.

They remained resilient, steadfast and dominant in their approach as they continued to create chances and push forward. Eventually, a shocking but stunning second goal by Takuma Asano gave them the lead and what a goal it was.

See the second goal here.

Whilst the German side attempted to find a second goal of their own, the Japanese didn't make it that easy and once that final whistle sounded, players spilled onto the pitch, cheering in jubilation because what a feat it was. A major upset for the Germans but a deserved win for Japan.

You may be wondering what any of this has to do with a manga. It's fair to say that Japan beating the Germans has certainly brought a lot more attention to it - with #bluelock trending after the game. Blue Lock is a manga which was turned into an anime and it follows the battle to find the best striker in all of Japan. However, the methods to do this are what takes the story to another level.

Something amazing is that the creators of the manga collaborated with Adidas to design Japan's national teams' jerseys. Fans admire the fighting spirit and the dedication that is depicted within the story. A moving and powerful outline of what the world witnessed in Japan's opening game.

You can take a peek at the anime itself which is currently airing.

Another anime, Captain Tsubasa even depicts a similar comeback between Japan and Germany, which is remarkable. Let's just say, witnessing moments like these in reality feel truly sensational.

Japan meet Costa Rica in their second game of the group stages this Sunday (27, November, 2022). A win could see them make it through to the round of 16, which they have managed to do at 3 World Cups. This time around, the goal will be to keep fighting and hopefully shine the Samurai Blue even further.

If you're following this years World Cup, who are you supporting and who do you favour to win it this time?