With several games at this World Cup so far having been decided by penalties and free kicks, Japan will be looking to avoid costly fouls when it faces Colombia in its opening match, defender Gotoku Sakai said Sunday.
The Hamburg right back said the issue had been discussed among the players after watching group-stage games that were impacted by fouls in defensive areas.
"We've talked about it with each other. Sometimes fouls can't be avoided, but there are certain situations where you absolutely don't want to give one away," the 27-year-old said following Japan's final training session in Kazan before Tuesday's Group H clash.