On the 2nd of this month, the Japan National Team, led by Coach Moriyasu Hajime, defeated Spain 2-1 in the final match of the group stage of the FIFA World Cup Qatar Tournament (Qatar World Cup). In this match, controversy rages around the world over midfielder Kaoru Mitoma (Brighton)’s return just before midfielder Midori Tanaka (Fortuna Düsseldorf)’s come-from-behind goal. Meanwhile, the TBS-affiliated variety program “Leave it to Akko!” by former Japan representative DF Tomoaki Makino (Vissel Kobe). ]The remarks at the time of appearance are controversial.
In the 51st minute, with the score 1-1, Japan’s midfielder Ritsu Doan (SC Freiburg) delivered a cross from the right corner of the penalty area to Kaoru Mitoma. Aoi Tanaka, who ran in front of the goal, pushed in. She was ruled no goal once, but the goal was allowed after a VAR (Video Assistant Referee) decision.
However, several media outlets in Spain and Germany claimed that the ball crossed the goal line when Kaoru Mitoma returned. In response to this, the world football federation (FIFA) released an official statement with a video on the 2nd that “the ball did not completely go out”. It is noteworthy that the ball was on the 1.88mm goal line.
Meanwhile, Tomoaki Makino will broadcast on the 4th, “Leave it to Akko! ]Appeared. Regarding the situation when Aoi Tanaka’s winning goal was recognized, he said, “Originally, it was a scene where it would have been a goal kick instead of VAR.” By applying pressure, the referee also had to check,” he explained. He said that the reaction of the spectators in the stands, including the Japanese national team supporters, also helped the goal.
However, in response to the player’s comment, on Twitter, “I guess he wanted to say something that would be funny to the media,” ” was flooded with negative comments. There are also harsh voices such as “professional disqualification” and “don’t say anything inappropriate”.
In addition, Tomoaki Makino is active as a local commentator for the Internet TV station “Abema TV”. He appeared with former Japan national team MF Keisuke Honda (independent) in the Japan national team vs. Germany national team on the 23rd of last month and the Japan national team vs. Spain national team on the 2nd of this month.