Japan capitalized on a new World Cup substitution rule during their 1-0 victory over Iceland. Koki Ogawa scored an 87th-minute header while Iceland had only 10 players on the pitch after winger Isak Thorvaldsson failed to enter within the 10-second window. This new Ifab rule requires players to immediately leave the field during substitutions, or their team must play short for at least one minute.

The match showcased several new World Cup rules designed to prevent time-wasting tactics. Besides the substitution protocol, matches will feature three-minute hydration breaks and five-second countdowns for throw-ins and goal-kicks. Players receiving off-field treatment must stay off for 60 seconds, with covering one's mouth in confrontations potentially resulting in red cards.

Japan manager Hajime Moriyasu emphasized his team's need to adapt quickly to these regulations, noting the importance of clear communication during hydration breaks. Japan opens their World Cup campaign against the Netherlands on June 14. These rule changes aim to reduce excessive stoppage time that plagued the 2022 tournament.