World Cup 2026: Japan benefits from new substitution rules

Japan became one of the first beneficiaries of the new time-limited substitution rule on Sunday when they scored when opponents Iceland had just 10 players on the field.

under Several new rules Introduced by the International Football Association Board (IFAB) for the World Cup, players have 10 seconds to leave the field at the nearest point when they are substituted.

If they fail to do so, the substitute cannot enter the field for at least one minute until the next stoppage of play, meaning their team must continue with 10 players.

During a friendly between Japan and Iceland on Sunday, Iceland fouled the new rules and winger Isak Thorvaldsson was unable to come on.

With Iceland down a man, Koki Ogawa scored a header in the 87th minute to give Japan a 1–0 win.

Japan’s goal came one minute and 54 seconds after Thorvaldsson was blocked from entering the pitch.

After the match, Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu warned his players against making the same mistakes as Iceland.

“I thought the players handled the new rule adjustments today with almost no problems,” Moriasu said.

“Under the new rules, players won’t necessarily be able to get back on the pitch as quickly as before. That’s something we have to keep in mind. Whether it’s during substitutions or at other moments, we have to avoid creating openings that give the opposition a chance.”

Moriasu also spoke about the importance of providing clear and concise tactical instructions during the three-minute hydration break, another new role.

“Within those three minutes, we have to organize the important points and communicate them clearly to the players,” the 57-year-old said.

“I feel that how well we use those three minutes can have a big impact on the outcome of the match, so we want to prepare thoroughly.”

Japan open their World Cup campaign against the Netherlands on Sunday, June 14 (21:00 BST) before facing Tunisia and Sweden.