Angry fans jam Japan FA switchboard after defeat

BONN, June 14: Disgruntled fans jammed the Japan Football Association (JFA) telephone switchboard after they lost their World Cup opener, Japanese media reported today.

Japan's 3-1 defeat by Australia in Monday's opening Group F clash provoked an angry response from supporters with over 100 calling JFA headquarters in Tokyo the morning after the game to register their disgust, according to the Nikkan Sports daily.

Most were critical of coach Zico, the paper said, while other angry fans even demanded the team come home immediately.

Japan squandered a first-half lead as Australia scored three goals in eight minutes to snatch a late victory.

The Asian champions face a mammoth task to qualify for the last 16 with games against Croatia on Sunday and tournament favourites Brazil on June 22 to come.

REUTERS

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