'World's oldest footballer' 59-year-old Miura scores for the first time in 4 years

Kazuyoshi Miura, widely recognized as the world's oldest active professional footballer at 59, has scored his first goal in almost four years. The Japanese legend found the net for Fukushima United in their commanding 7-0 victory over Iwaki Furukawa during a regional final of the Emperor's Cup.

Miura's goal, the team's fifth in the match, came in the second half. This marks his first goal since joining Fukushima United and his first official goal in approximately four years, with his last being in November 2022. At 59 years, 4 months, and 29 days old, Miura continues to defy age and extend his remarkable career.

Having transferred to Fukushima in the J3 League last year, Miura recently signed a contract extension, ensuring he will continue playing even as he approaches his 60th birthday. With the J.League transitioning to an autumn-spring season format starting in 2026-2027, Miura, born in February 1967, is expected to play during his 60th year.

Miura, a pioneer of Japanese football, began his professional career in Brazil with Santos in 1986 after leaving high school at 15. He has since played in various leagues across Brazil, Italy, Croatia, Australia, and Portugal. He was a prominent figure in the J.League since its inception in 1993 and represented Japan internationally, scoring 55 goals in 89 matches.