Maya agrees with Honda

Honda was fined AUD$5000 for his criticism of the decisions during Japan's 4-0 victory over Palestine, but Yoshida bravely agreed with Honda's comments.

He said: "Of course there are times when we players, we have to call for improvements, and to be honest, I am shocked at the amount of fine he has been given.

"The kind of fouls we have seen given at this tournament wouldn't be given in an [non-Asian] international match.

"They certainly would not have been given in Germany, or Italy or England.

"When we played four years ago [at the Asian Cup] I was not comfortable because every single tackle or body contact would be a foul every time.

"It does nothing to help Asian football because the playing time is shorter than European football.

"That is not only because of delays in the game but also because of the referees. I want to play an exciting game and fans too, want to see an exciting game."