Fox Sports Commentator Sparks Controversy with Remarks on Japan's Height Before Late Equalizer

The opening group stage clash between Japan and the Netherlands at the 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered an unforgettable moment, especially with Japan's equalizer arriving in the 88th minute, shortly after Fox Sports commentators raised doubts about Japan's scoring chances.

Darren Fletcher and Owen Hargreaves provided commentary for the match, with Fletcher making a notable remark just before Japan leveled the score. He stated, “The Japanese players think they’re taller than they actually are, because they persist on crossing it straight onto the heads of the Dutch defenders.” Just moments later, after a Dutch clearance led to a throw-in, he advised Japan to “go short” instead of attempting another cross into the crowded penalty area.

Fletcher further added, “You watch; they’ll score from this one now that I have said that,” a prediction that turned out to be spot on as Japan did indeed score shortly thereafter.

It's worth noting that Japan's average height of 5 feet 11 inches ties them as the 36th-tallest team in the World Cup, alongside Cape Verde. For comparison, Saudi Arabia ranks as the shortest team, averaging 5 feet 10 inches, while the Netherlands stands at an average height of 6 feet 1 inch, placing them among the taller squads.

Despite the height disparity, it’s important to recognize that shorter teams can still feature exceptional athletes. Acknowledging his earlier comments, Fletcher later apologized on air, stating, “Can I just apologize to every Japanese player down there, because that’s why they were crossing it into the Dutch box— because eventually they were going to get a goal out of it.”