Published: Jun 26, 2026, 12:12 IST | Updated: Jun 26, 2026, 12:12 IST
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.