However, the J-League told Reuters they would not issue retroactive yellow cards to Hiroshima Sanfrecce's Tomoaki Makino (pictured) and Hisato Sato for their prank in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Shimizu S-Pulse.
Hiroshima were awarded a third-minute penalty and defender Makino placed the ball on the spot before retreating to the edge of the box to start his run-up.
"Makino was clearly identified as the designated kicker (having placed the ball)," said the JFA's referees' committee chief Yasuhiro Matsuzaki.
"The moment Sato entered the penalty area there should have been a free-kick to Shimizu and a yellow card for unsportsmanlike conduct for Sato.
"The match officials are supposed to know the rules of the game and were unable to make the right decision. We will consider what (punitive) measures to take."
