Kazuyoshi Miura, the world’s oldest professional footballer, has scored his first goal in nearly four years, netting for Japanese third-tier side Fukushima United.
The legendary forward, affectionately known as King Kazu, found the net in the 52nd minute of a dominant Emperor’s Cup victory on Saturday afternoon.
His goal came during a commanding 7-0 thrashing of Iwaki Furukawa, with Miura’s contribution arriving to make it 5-0 to Fukushima at the time.
It marks his first competitive goal since he scored for Suzuka PG, now known as Atletico Suzuka, against FC Osaka back in November 2022.
At 59 years of age, Miura remains one of the most remarkable figures in world football, continuing to compete at a professional level well beyond any conventional retirement age.
Known as King Kazu throughout Japan, he is widely regarded as one of the country’s most beloved sportsmen and was the face of the J League when it launched in 1993.
His extraordinary career began with Brazilian side Santos in 1986, and he has since played club football across Italy, Croatia and Australia during a journey spanning four decades.
Miura scored 55 goals in 89 appearances for the Japanese national team, establishing himself as a true icon of the game in his home country.
He has previously spoken openly about his desire to keep playing into his 60s, a target that now looks entirely achievable given the terms of his current arrangement.
His loan at Fukushima from J2 League side Yokohama FC has been extended until June 2027, meaning his remarkable career will stretch into a 42nd professional season.
Miura originally signed for Yokohama FC in 2005, though he has not featured for the club itself since 2020 as loan moves have kept him active on the pitch.
Saturday’s goal will only add to the legend of a player who continues to defy time, inspiring footballers and sports fans across Japan and around the world.
