Referee Review
Why was this decision made?
See the key points from a referee’s perspective
Show explanation
Referee Review
Why was this decision made?
See the key points from a referee’s perspective
Show explanationHow the footage and Laws apply
This incident happened behind the referee, making it very difficult for the referee alone to know what had taken place. The footage shows the FC Tokyo player striking their opponent. It is in situations such as this that the refereeing team, including the assistant referees and the fourth official, must work together to provide information and lead the referee to the correct decision.
Relevant Laws
Law 12 - Fouls and Misconduct (Sending-off offences)
Official references
Check the wording of the Laws
The links above lead to official IFAB and JFA resources. The application of the Laws to this incident is the author’s analysis and is not an official view of IFAB, JFA or the competition organiser.
Fair challenge or foul? Watch the clip and check the reasoning.
Check the line between careless, reckless and excessive force on video, then try a related quiz.
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