*This content was translated by AI.
"Excuse me, may I say one more thing? Thank you for covering the World Cup."
Just as all question-and-answer sessions concluded and the lights in the mixed zone were about to be turned off, Japanese national team midfielder Sano Kai-shu (26, Mainz 05 of Germany) politely stopped the reporters. All media personnel present immediately turned their attention toward him.
However, what came from his lips was not regret over the match but a "deep gratitude" toward the journalists who had covered the event on-site. Sano reportedly bowed to the press corps, saying, "Thank you for reporting so sincerely and extensively on our story and football news around this World Cup."
This behind-the-scenes account from the field was later revealed through the official SNS of Japanese freelance soccer journalist Mimura Yuusuke, who was present at the scene. On the 24th, Reporter Mimura described the situation via his SNS: "After all tournament coverage concluded, player Sano added a few words to express gratitude to the media teams that had provided extensive reporting before and during this tournament."
This message of appreciation from the players did not remain an isolated act of kindness. In subsequent posts, Reporter Mimura also shared behind-the-scenes details following Japan's defeat against powerhouse Brazil. In the 2026 CONCACAF World Cup qualifiers, Japan took an early lead with a goal by Sano in the 29th minute of the first half, but ultimately collapsed after conceding a heartbreaking winning goal in stoppage time of the second half while tied 1-1.
Reporter Mimura further stated, "In fact, another player besides Sano expressed gratitude to the media while enduring intense frustration and disappointment following the Brazil match defeat." He added, "That player requested that his name not be disclosed publicly, so I cannot reveal it by name, but such a sense of unity exists across the entire squad."
Indeed, throughout this World Cup, the Japanese national team actively engaged with media coverage even in situations of extreme fatigue—immediately after matches or following grueling training sessions—more proactively than at any previous time.
Regarding this, Reporter Mimura remarked, "It is not that the media itself is great or outstanding." He evaluated the situation as follows: "Even if the media's influence has diminished compared to the past, the sincerity of the players' commitment to fulfill every possible role through the media for the sake of fans and the entire football community was clearly demonstrated."
Despite the bitterness of defeat, Japan's national team showed class beyond the pitch by showing consideration for the press and striving to convey the value of football, leaving a warm resonance at the World Cup venue.
<© STARNEWS. All rights reserved. No reproduction or redistribution allowed.>
*This content was translated by AI.
