Striker Yoshito Okubo has been slapped with a three-match suspension for kicking Oman's goalkeeper in a World Cup qualifier earlier this month, the Japan Football Association said Thursday.

Soccer's world governing body FIFA has also fined the JFA 5,000 Swiss francs (¥520,000) for Okubo's misconduct during the second half of the 1-1 draw in Muscat on June 7, which led to the sending-off of the Vissel Kobe player.

The suspension includes the game played in Bangkok last Saturday, which Japan won 3-0.

"It's a shame but I'm the one who's to blame because I did kick him," Okubo said.

In the game against Oman, the former Real Mallorca player kicked goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi in the thigh following their clash in front of goal in the 73rd minute.