Drama over Japanese player Keito Nakamura's socks forces his temporary exit from the game.
On 26 June 2026, in a match where Japan drew 1-1 with Sweden, Japan advanced to the 2026 World Cup knockout stage as the runner-up of Group F, while Sweden qualified as one of the best third-placed teams.
Debate continued after the match due to referee Ivan Barton's objection to Keito Nakamura's socks during the game, leading to Nakamura being temporarily sent off to change his socks. Nakamura said after the game that "he himself was confused."
Keito Nakamura's sock-wearing style. He typically pulls his socks down below the calf to prevent long-standing cramp issues. He confirmed, "I have worn them like this for over three years." He also wore them this way in the two previous group games against the Netherlands and Tunisia, and felt that being forced to change them suddenly disrupted his rhythm.
Details of the incident. In the first half, referee Ivan Barton repeatedly warned Nakamura about his socks. Early in the second half, the fourth official also warned coach Moriyasu.
At the 56th minute, Japan scored 1-0, but immediately after, Nakamura was ordered off to change his socks, leaving Japan with 10 players temporarily. Nakamura later returned to the field, and by the 62nd minute, Sweden equalized 1-1, just three minutes after Nakamura re-entered.
Tsuneyasu Miyamoto, president of the Japan Football Association. He expressed doubts about why the referee raised concerns during the match when there were no issues during pre-match checks. He considered this a "disadvantage for Japan" and stated he would seek clarity on equipment inspection standards. This will be addressed ahead of the round of 32 match against Brazil on 30 June.
According to general football rules, players must wear socks fully covering their shin guards for player safety. However, many players prefer to cut or pull their socks down for various reasons, including preventing cramps, enhancing mobility, and improving heat ventilation in hot conditions.
On social media, critics called this a "double standard" since the socks passed pre-match inspections but were objected to during the game.