NUREMBERG, Germany -- Japan coach Zico got a little hot under the collar after the Boys in Blue's game against Croatia but apparently not as hot as his players did during the game.

The Brazilian said it was criminal Japan had to play another afternoon match Sunday as it drew 0-0 with Croatia in sweltering conditions, a result that makes it very difficult for Japan to qualify for the second round.

"It is criminal scheduling two games at three o'clock," Zico said after the game at Franken-Stadion, where it was a 27 C during the game.