Japan Star Daizen Maeda Accused of Breaking World Cup Kit Rule Against Netherlands as Former FIFA Referee Issues Verdict
A Japan international has found himself at the centre of a World Cup kit controversy after fans claimed Daizen Maeda appeared to have broken football equipment regulations during Japan’s dramatic 2-2 draw against the Netherlands.
The thrilling encounter at the AT&T Stadium saw both teams deliver an entertaining contest, with neither side able to secure all three points. After a cagey opening period, the match exploded into life following the break as the Netherlands took the lead through Virgil van Dijk.
Japan responded quickly, with Maeda becoming one of the biggest talking points of the match after his involvement in the game. The Netherlands regained the advantage through Crysencio Summerville, but Japan fought until the final moments before Daichi Kamada produced a late equaliser to rescue a valuable point.
Daizen Maeda Sparks Kit Controversy
While Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu attracted attention for his unusual tactical approach on the touchline, Maeda’s appearance also became a major discussion point online.
Images circulating on social media showed the Japan forward with fans questioning whether he was wearing shin pads during the match.
The International Football Association Board (IFAB), which oversees the Laws of the Game, states that shin pads are a compulsory part of a player’s equipment.
According to Law 4.2, shin pads must:
– Be made from suitable material.
– Be of an appropriate size to provide reasonable protection.
– Be covered by the player’s socks.
The responsibility for ensuring the suitability and size of shin pads belongs to the player.
However, the laws do not specify an exact size requirement, meaning the decision over what provides “reasonable protection” can often become a matter of debate.
Former FIFA Referee Gives His View
Former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee Keith Hackett responded to the discussion surrounding Maeda, highlighting the importance of players following the equipment rules.
“Shinguards – these must be made of a suitable material and be of an appropriate size to provide reasonable protection and be covered by the socks. Players are responsible for the size and suitability of their shinguards,” Hackett explained.
Some supporters believe Maeda may have been wearing extremely small shin pads rather than having no protection at all. However, whether those smaller guards meet the required safety standard remains open to debate.
Growing Debate Over Small Shin Pads
The controversy surrounding Maeda comes as more professional footballers have started using smaller shin pads, with some players preferring lightweight protection that does not restrict movement.
Former Everton winger Jack Grealish became one of the most recognisable examples of a player using unusually small shin pads, but medical experts have repeatedly warned about the potential risks.
Former Wycombe Wanderers club doctor Bob Sangar previously raised concerns about the growing trend, pointing out that modern football boots and studs can cause serious injuries when players have limited protection.
“Some modern-day football boots have got sharp angled studs quite capable of slicing through a sock, skin and muscle,” Sangar said.
He also warned that serious injuries can happen when players receive strong challenges around the shin and ankle areas while wearing minimal protection.
The debate over shin pads continues, with Maeda’s situation once again bringing attention to whether football’s current equipment rules provide enough protection for players at the highest level.
