Chinese media Red Star News reported on the 15th that the shin guard (shin pad/shin guard) of Japan national football team's Keito Nakamura is causing controversy.

In the first match of Group F of the North American World Cup (W杯) held on the same day, Japan drew 2-2 with the Netherlands. The article introduced that Nakamura, who started as a left wing-back, scored a goal to temporarily equalize in the 12th minute of the second half, adding that "what attracted more attention than the goal was whether he was wearing a shin guard."

It then reported that "in the live broadcast footage of the match, Nakamura's socks were pulled down almost to his ankles, making it look as if he wasn't wearing shin guards," and that questions arose online such as "There's a player without shin guards in the World Cup?" and "Isn't it a rule violation to play without shin guards?"

The article stated, "Looking at photos taken on site, there was a small bulge under Nakamura's socks, indicating that he was actually wearing mini shin guards," and mentioned, "Nakamura wearing these is a personal habit he has had for a long time." It introduced that Nakamura himself had explained in the past that "when wearing regular socks and shin guards, the compression is too strong, making it easier for his calves to cramp."

It then explained, "According to the regulations of the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), shin guards are mandatory equipment and must be worn by all players. They are also required to be made of appropriate material and to be completely covered by socks. However, specific shin guard sizes are not stipulated, so Nakamura's mini shin guards are not a problem under the rules."

Furthermore, it stated, "Compared to general shin guards, they cover only one-third or less of the area and are lighter in weight. Although the protective power is somewhat sacrificed due to the smaller covered area, the player's ease of movement is improved accordingly," and introduced that England national team's Jack Grealish and Netherlands national team's Memphis Depay also wear similar mini shin guards.

Chinese netizens voiced opinions such as: "It's been around for a long time. Rui Costa (former Portugal national team player) also often pulled his socks down." "I'm worried if something so small can function." "I think it's dangerous." "He's brave." "Taking the risk of injury to win, how about that?" "If a player gets injured without wearing them, it's their own choice. If they choose not to wear them, it's not for others to comment on."

Additionally, comments such as: "When I first saw it, I thought it might be a rule violation, but that's how it was." "(The obligation to wear shin guards) is like the obligation to wear a helmet when riding an electric bike." "(Mini shin guards) are merely for fulfilling the rules, and their protective effect is basically negligible. But players are desperate to perform at their best. They are seeking results in exchange for risk," were also received. (Translation/Editing by Kitada)