European Football
59-Year-Old Miura Makes History as Japan’s Ageless Football Icon Strikes Twice
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Kazuyoshi Miura has done it again.
The Japanese football icon, now 59 years old, has become the oldest goalscorer in Emperor’s Cup history, scoring twice as Fukushima United swept aside Oyama Soccer Club 7-0 in the first round.
Known around the world as “King Kazu”, Miura continues to defy conventional football timelines.
His latest achievement came at 59 years, five months and 24 days, pushing the previous Emperor’s Cup record — held by former Japan midfielder Shinji Ono, who scored at 41 — into the history books.
Two penalties, one extraordinary record
Miura opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 12th minute, before returning to the spot early in the second half to complete his brace.
Three minutes after his second goal, he was substituted.
[CNA]
The goals were particularly remarkable given that they came only weeks after Miura scored his first competitive goal in almost four years during the tournament's qualifying rounds.
His response afterwards was typically understated.
"“You never know when it might be your turn.”"
Miura explained that he regularly practises penalties because opportunities can arrive at any moment — and on this occasion, that preparation paid off.
A career that simply refuses to end
Miura is now in his 42nd professional season, a number that makes his latest achievement even more extraordinary.
His professional career began in Brazil in 1986, before taking him through clubs in Japan, Italy, Croatia, Australia and Portugal. He became the first Japanese player to play in Serie A during his spell with Genoa in the 1990s. �
[Reuters +1]
For Japan, Miura scored 55 goals in 89 international appearances, becoming one of the most influential figures in the country's football history.
And remarkably, he is still adding new chapters.
Miura is still competing at 59
Miura joined Fukushima United on loan from Yokohama FC earlier this year, with the loan extended through June 2027.
[yokohamafc.com]
That means his extraordinary career is set to continue beyond his 60th birthday in February 2027.
For younger players at Fukushima, Miura's presence represents something much bigger than his goals.
His longevity has become part of his identity, but his continued willingness to train, compete and contribute is what makes the story so remarkable.
The record books keep making room for King Kazu
Miura's latest achievement is not simply another statistic.
It is another reminder that his career has stretched across generations of football.
He started playing professionally before many of today's stars were born. More than four decades later, he is still scoring in major domestic competition — and now holds the Emperor's Cup record for the oldest goalscorer.
At 59, King Kazu is still writing his own football story.
And somehow, the next chapter is already waiting.
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