Full Breakdown
King Kazu Scores at 59, Ending Four-Year Goal Drought
7/27/2026, 12:06:47 AM
The Goal and Match Details
On July 26, Fukushima United defeated Iwaki Furukawa 7-0 in the Emperor’s Cup. Kazuyoshi Miura, age 59 years 149 days, scored in the 52nd minute, extending the lead to 5-0 before being substituted three minutes later. It was his first competitive goal since November 2022, when he netted for Suzuka PG (now Atletico Suzuka) in a Japan Football League loss to FC Osaka.
Background and Recent Club Situation
Miura, a former Japan international, joined Fukushima United on loan from Yokohama FC in December. He has made six appearances in the shortened 2026 campaign and extended his loan until June 2027, preparing for a 42nd professional season. The loan runs through June 2027, allowing him to compete in the upcoming season under the new calendar.
Career Longevity and Milestones
Miura debuted professionally with Santos (Brazil) in 1986 and became the first Japanese player in Italy’s Serie A with Genoa in 1994-95. His career includes spells in Croatia, Australia, Portugal and multiple Japanese clubs. He has 55 goals in 89 international matches, the second-most prolific scorer for Japan behind Kunishige Kamamoto.
Fan and Media Reaction
The strike prompted jubilant celebrations from teammates on the pitch and the bench, and media highlighted Miura’s status as the world’s oldest active professional footballer. His presence continues to attract spectators, with clubs citing his popularity as a boost to ticket sales and television viewership.
Future Outlook
Japan’s professional leagues will shift from a spring-autumn to an autumn-spring calendar, meaning Miura will be in his 60s when the new season begins in February. He has publicly said he will not retire until he turns 60, keeping him a major draw for fans in Japan and abroad.
