The World Cup came to a close in Brazil on Sunday, with Germany winning the tournament, Lionel Messi landing the Golden Ball for best player and Colombian striker James Rodriguez taking home the Golden Boot for most goals. There was also a Golden Glove for German goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, and had there been a Golden Litter Bag it would have likely gone to Japan's stadium-cleaning soccer fans.

While Japan's squad finished its World Cup campaign in disappointment, coming home early after elimination at the group stage, Japan's...