Japan’s final 8 hopes dashed

With an upset victory against Denmark propelling Japan’s Samurai Blue into the World Cup’s group of 16, Tuesday June 29 saw Japan going up against Paraguay in its first match of the new grouping. Liquid Loft, on the second floor of Ebisu’s Liquidroom hosted a public viewing to help spur on the teams from afar.

Doors opened at 10.30pm, with the floor filling up with a steady stream of football fans settling in front of the monitors. Music magazine Musica Editor-in Chief Atsushi Shikano was on hand to get the festivities going, MCing to sea of blue jerseys.

With the game starting in, the first half was a consistent 0-0 tie, and remained that way until the end of the second half, with Japan holding its own against a traditionally strong Paraguay. With the scoreless draw still standing, the match went into overtime in a penalty kickoff, with Paraguay winning out 5-3.

With the penalty kick-off as the moment of truth, the raucous crowd fell momentarily silent, and then broke into cheers. Despite the defeat, energy was still high with DJ Karou Inoue (Chari Chari) playing to the crowd, wrapping up an emotional and hope-inspiring run that only happens once every four years. Thanks to all the fans, no matter who you are, for supporting team Japan.