In the world of sport, Japan has come up against both Taiwan and China recently, competing against the latter in the Asian Cup soccer and against the former in baseball at the Athens Olympics. The Japanese teams won on both occasions, but the reactions of the Taiwanese and Chinese fans were in complete contrast. Chinese fans, driven by nationalist sentiment, caused riots, while Taiwanese fans recognized the outstanding performance of their rival, but still felt proud of their achievement.
The reactions to the results of these competitions reflect the general attitudes and socialization on the two sides of the Strait. Japan's soccer and baseball teams are clearly stronger than those of Taiwan or China. That is simply a fact, and the Taiwanese people are able to make a rational judgment about this. Although we hope to see Taiwan win, we do not become emotional and irrational if we do not.
However, the Chinese government, the soccer association and the Chinese media have stirred up nationalism among their people. As a result, the public's emotions could hardly be controlled. This led to attacks on the Japanese team's bus and harassment of its fans.
http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/edit/archives/2004/08/24/2003200030