Japan coach Zico is furious with Germany midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger for a challenge that is likely to see Akiri Kaji miss the World Cup opener against Australia.

Midfielder Kaji had to be stretchered off during a 2-2 draw between the World Cup hosts and the Blue Samurai last week and looks set to be ruled out of the clash with the Socceroos on Monday.

Zico fumed: "It was an absolutely disgraceful tackle. Kaji got taken down really badly and there is no question in my mind that Schweinsteiger should have been sent off.

"My heart goes out to the poor lad. I am still very worried about the situation.

"If it was only a light bruise, he would be walking around fine, but he is still in a great deal of pain, so that shows you what a horrible foul it was."