A shocking scene has emerged in Japanese football. There are fierce criticisms calling for a permanent ban for the unbelievable play of choking an opponent's neck.

On the 16th (Korean time), Abema Times reported, "Criticism is pouring in regarding the foolish behavior of Jeppu United Ichihara Chiba midfielder Eduardo. He received a direct red card for 'choking.'"

Chiba played to a 3-3 draw against Tokushima Vortis on the 15th at the 2025 J2 League Round 19 held at the Tokushima Pocari Sweat Stadium. After an intense back-and-forth battle, no winner was determined.

It was a high-stakes match between league leader Chiba and fifth-place Tokushima, but a particular scene drew more attention than the content and outcome of the game. This occurred in the 37th minute of the second half when Chiba's Eduardo choked and brought down Tokushima forward Tony Anderson.

According to Abema Times, Tokushima earned a corner kick opportunity, and players from both teams were fiercely competing for positioning in front of the goal. In particular, Chiba's Eduardo, Ishikai Daichi, Tokushima's Anderson, and Yamakoshi Kohei had a collision. The referee also cautioned them not to overheat.

However, an incident eventually occurred. During several collisions, Anderson knocked Eduardo down, resulting in a foul being called. The referee approached to check Eduardo's condition on the ground, and Anderson, who committed the foul, also approached. Suddenly, an agitated Eduardo stood up and put his hands around Anderson's neck.

Abema Times reported, "Eduardo rushed at Anderson with tremendous momentum and choked him. Anderson collapsed, and the referee blew the whistle again. Without hesitation, the referee pulled out a red card for the foolish behavior that transpired right before his eyes."

The commentators during the broadcast were also astonished. The caster shook his head, saying, "This is ridiculous!" and the analyst remarked, "This shouldn't happen. What on earth happened?" However, even after the ejection was declared, Eduardo could not calm down and had to be restrained by teammates and the opposing player.

The shocking scene of choking an opponent garnered attention among Japanese football fans as well. According to Abema Times, fans commented, "A direct ejection is justified," "What on earth was he doing in such an important match?" "He should be permanently expelled," "Regardless of the reason, it was foolish behavior," and "At least a five-match suspension, right?" discussing the severe penalty of permanent disqualification for the player.

However, there were opinions suggesting that Anderson was at fault first. Some fans commented, "If he got this angry, something must have happened," "Anderson was messing around during position battles before this," "They fought fiercely during the corner kick," "Originally, it was Anderson's foul," and "There must have been a reason for his anger," defending Eduardo. But it does not change the fact that Eduardo lost control and committed an act of violence that should not have happened.

[Photo] DAZN, Abema Times.

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