The coach of Japan's national soccer team has praised what his squad accomplished in their World Cup campaign, which came to an end with a penalty shootout loss to Croatia.

Moriyasu Hajime said his men opened a new chapter for Japanese soccer, though the team failed to advance beyond the round of 16.

Japan pulled off a remarkable upset victory over four-time World Cup champion Germany in Doha on Wednesday.

Japan's team was largely outmaneuvered by their opponent in the first half. In the 33rd minute, Japan allowed a goal on a penalty kick.

Soccer fans flocked around the famous scramble crossing near Tokyo's Shibuya Station after Japan beat Germany 2-1 in the World Cup in Qatar.

A university student said he watched the match at a nearby restaurant. The 20-year-old said he thought Japan might lose when Germany opened the scoring, and he was very happy the Samurai Blue prevailed.