KUALA LUMPUR: It’s not just in Japan that the Samurai Blue fever is soaring high during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
It is also here in Malaysia, with the Japanese national team catching the eye of local football fans with its dynamic performances.
Following a 1-1 draw with Sweden in a fast-paced match at the Dallas Stadium in the United States yesterday, Japan finished second in Group F and advanced to the knockout stage.
And there was a carnival air at a watch party co-hosted by the Japanese Embassy at a hotel here, with dozens of Japanese based here turning up for the 7am kick-off to cheer for their national team. They were joined by local guests who provided vocal support for Japan.
The crowd burst into loud cheers after a stunning combination play by Japan led to the team taking the lead, with Daizen Maeda scoring in the 56th minute.
But that lead was shortlived as Sweden’s Anthony Elanga curled in a stunner six minutes later.
Japan battled to hold on for a valuable point, with Sweden also advancing to the next round as one of the eight best third-placed teams.
Japanese Ambassador to Malaysia Noriyuki Shikata said he was delighted to see a strong turnout at the watch party.
“It is nice to see a lot of Malaysian friends supporting our Samurai Blue for the World Cup and to see such interest in Asian football,” he told reporters.
He said watching Japan compete from abroad while being surrounded by Japanese and home supporters is a unique feeling that goes beyond football.
“Although Malaysia is not participating in the World Cup, the support of local fans for Japan demonstrates how sport can bridge cultures and bring communities together,” he said.
“We are hopeful that our Samurai Blue can win their next knockout round game and advance further into the tournament, especially since Japan is one of the few Asian representatives left in this World Cup.”
Shikata said the gathering also highlighted the close sporting ties between Malaysia and Japan, noting the growing presence of Japanese coaches and players in the Malaysian football league.
“We are looking forward to promoting further sports exchange between Japan and Malaysia, not only in football but also in badminton and pickleball,” he said.
He also welcomed the presence of Swedish supporters at the event, describing the occasion as one marked by friendship and mutual respect despite the fierce contest on the field.
Also present were Tengku Dr Muhammad Faiz Petra and his Swedish-born wife Sofie Louise Johansson, with both clad in Sweden’s national team jersey
Other diplomats present included Australian High Commissioner Danielle Heinecke, New Zealand High Commissioner Mike Walsh, Canadian High Commissioner Jodi Robinson, Mexican Ambassador Luis Javier Campuzano Pina and European Union Ambassador Rafael Daerr.
