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FIFA World Cup 2026: Japan's World Cup Run Wins Hearts in China

In a packed Shanghai sports bar, an unexpected scene unfolded as Chinese soccer fans erupted in frenzied delight over Japan’s dominant 4-0 World Cup victory against Tunisia. China is normally the least obvious place for Japanese fandom to thrive—especially given deep-rooted historical animosity and heightened political tensions since conservative Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi took office in Tokyo last year.