Kazuyoshi Miura, the world’s oldest active professional soccer player, has scored his first competitive goal in nearly four years at the age of 59.
The Japanese soccer legend, better known as “King Kazu,” scored for Fukushima United in a 7-0 win over Iwaki Furukawa FC in the Fukushima Prefectural qualifying final for the 2026 Emperor’s Cup.
It was his first competitive goal since November 2022, ending a drought of around three years and eight months.
Miura ends four-year goal drought
Miura started the match and scored Fukushima’s fifth goal in the second half, converting from close range after a cross from teammate Takatora Einaga. The veteran forward celebrated with teammates and was substituted shortly after.
Miura began his professional career in Brazil in 1986 before returning to help launch Japan’s professional era, winning the inaugural J.League MVP award in 1993 and scoring 55 goals in 89 appearances for the national team.
Miura has also played professionally in Italy, Croatia, Australia and Portugal. He joined Fukushima United on loan from Yokohama FC ahead of the 2026 season, with the agreement later extended until June 2027.
Miura will therefore celebrate his 60th birthday while still playing professionally, more than 40 years after making his senior debut.
How long he’ll continue playing for is anyone’s guess, but it’s already far beyond even the likes of Western legends like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, who are likely to retire within the next few years in their 40s.
Earlier this month, the J.League revealed a partnership with Pokemon that will see all 60 clubs get their own mascot from the franchise.
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