‘A historic moment’: Japanese World Cup hopes surge ahead of crucial Costa Rica match

Fans believe the Samurai Blue are part of wave of teams changing the face of football after defeat of Germany

After Japan's stunning victory over Germany in their opening match of the Qatar World Cup, fans of the Samurai Blue are daring to dream their team could reach the quarter-finals for the first time.

Their remarkable comeback last week has electrified Japan, where hardcore and casual fans alike stayed up until midnight to watch their victory over the four-time world champions.