On November 19, Japan faced North Korea in the round of 16 of the U-17 World Cup. After both national anthems were played, Japan captain and goalkeeper Shuji Muramatsu led his teammates toward the referee for the traditional high-five greeting.
Immediately afterward, Japan's players came forward to show respect and offer high-fives or friendly fistbumps to their opponents. But North Korea's reaction surprised everyone - some players raised their fists and swung them downwards, looking more like a punch than a greeting.
The entire moment was caught clearly on live broadcast, and social media exploded with criticism:
“That North Korean fist bump was terrifying…”
“This wasn’t respect—it looked like an attack.”
“FIFA needs to step in and protest this.”
“This deserves disqualification. Zero sportsmanship.”
“Such unsporting behavior should be a yellow card.”
“Way over the line…”
“They should’ve been sent off before kickoff.”
“Why throw a punch like that? No respect at all.”
Comments and outrage poured in nonstop.
Despite the unexpected drama, Japan's players maintained their composure. Just four minutes after the start of the match, Ryukyu U-18 forward Majerani Ren scored a brilliant header to put Japan ahead. North Korea equalized in the 67th minute, and the game ended 1–1 after 90 minutes. In the penalty shootout, Japan held on strongly and defeated North Korea, winning 5–4.
For the first time in 14 years, Japan equaled its best-ever U-17 World Cup result, advancing to the quarter-finals. Next up, on November 21, Japan will face Austria in a battle for a semifinal spot.
