Japanese football legend ‘King Kazu’ makes history with goal at 59

Legendary footballer began his professional career in 1986 with Brazilian club Santos.

Japanese football legend Kazuyoshi Miura, widely known as “King Kazu,” has reached another remarkable milestone in his historic career by scoring his first competitive goal in four years.

The 59-year-old football icon once again proved that age is just a number.

Playing for J3 League club Fukushima United, Miura scored in the 52nd minute to help his team secure a 7-0 victory over Iwaki Furukawa in the Emperor’s Cup.

His goal sparked celebrations among teammates on the field and the bench before the veteran striker was substituted three minutes later.

It was Miura’s first competitive goal since November 2022, when he scored for Suzuka Point Getters, now known as Atletico Suzuka, in the Japan Football League.

The legendary footballer began his professional career in 1986 with Brazilian club Santos.

The former Japan international is preparing for his 42nd season as a professional after extending his loan with third-tier club Fukushima United through June 2027.

Miura joined Fukushima United from Yokohama FC in December and will remain with the club after making six appearances during the shortened 2026 season.

With Japan’s professional leagues set to switch from a spring-to-autumn schedule to an autumn-to-spring calendar, Miura continues to play professionally, adding another chapter to one of football’s longest and most remarkable careers.

Miura has previously said he does not plan to retire before turning 60, and he remains a major draw for football fans in Japan and around the world.