Devastated but dignified: Japan says 'thank you' to Russia after painful World Cup exit

Japan showed tremendous dignity and respect despite heartbreak. Photo / Twitter.

Despite exiting the Fifa World Cup in heartbreaking fashion, the Japanese players and fans showed tremendous dignity and respect in saying a warm thank you to Russia.

Early second half goals from Genki Haraguchi and Takashi Inui gave Japan a surprise 2-0 lead in their round of 16 clash, but Nacer Chadli's 94th minute strike completed a brilliant comeback for Belgium as they booked a date with Brazil in the quarter-finals.

Inconsolable Japanese players collapsed to the turf in despair after the final whistle blew and their fans in the stands were as equally dejected.

Fifa General Director Priscilla Janssens tweeted a picture of Japan's spotless dressing room and there was a note from the team in Russian which read "thank you".

Janssens wrote: "This is the Japanese dressing room after losing to Belgium in the 94' minute.

"Thanked their fans in the stadium, cleaned up everything (bench and dressing room) and spoke to media. Even left note with 'thank you' in Russian. What an example for all teams!! Privilege to work with!"

Japan fans were applauded for helping to clean up the Mordovia Arena earlier in the tournament following their 2-1 win over Colombia in Saransk.