While they were looking shaky in the first half, the Japanese national football team rallied in the second half for a historic win over Spain. Soon, the anime world rejoiced after Japan’s win as it sent them to the top of their group and to the Round of 16 at the 2022 World Cup.
As the soccer anime Blue Lock is currently ongoing, many anime fans have drawn parallels to the anime and the recent World Cup wins by Japan.
But fans aren’t the only ones celebrating as even well-known anime and manga creators are hyping up Japan’s win.
Fans Compare Japan's Win to Blue Lock
For context, Japan was grouped alongside Spain, Germany, and Costa Rica in the 2022 World Cup Group Stage. Many pundits expected Spain and Germany to easily top this group.
But Japan proved everyone wrong as they first beat Germany in an unlikely 2-1 victory.
While Japan lost against Costa Rica, the team managed to pull another upset, this time against Spain.
Their win even came with an improbable goal that saw the ball almost going out but was saved and kicked, leading to the team’s winning goal.
Fans who watched the match were quick to draw comparisons between the Japan vs. Spain match and Blue Lock.
Specifically, many noticed how Japan’s first goal almost looked the same as a goal in the anime.
There were also comparisons made between the anime and the actual Japanese team’s uniform as they both look similar.
Many even thought that the anime inspired the team’s blue uniforms.
Lots of fans also remarked about how they expect Blue Lock’s popularity to skyrocket following the recent events.
Many are even joking that the manga’s creators will soon be swimming in money.
ALSO READ: Who Are Blue Lock's Voice Actors? Sub & Dub Cast and Characters
Anime and Manga Artists React to Japan's Win
To start, Blue Lock illustrator Yusuke Nomura shared a special illustration featuring the series’ protagonist, Yoichi Isagi.
This is his second illustration following the first that marked Japan’s win over Germany.
Meanwhile, noted soccer fan Imigimuru (the character designer of Lycoris Recoil) was live tweeting his reactions to the match.
Even if you don’t speak Japanese, it’s easy to see how excited and happy he got while watching.
Another notable anime industry professional that celebrated the win is Ryu Nakamura, the director of Chainsaw Man. He tweeted excitedly following Japan’s win.
It’s not yet over for Japan though, as there’s still the Round of 16 to look forward to.
After the Japanese national football team's recent wins, more people will likely tune in to their next World Cup match and to Blue Lock's next episodes.
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