‘King Kazu’ makes history at 59 with two penalty goals

Japanese football veteran Kazuyoshi Miura, known as “King Kazu,” made history at the age of 59 after scoring twice from the penalty spot to become the oldest goalscorer in the history of Japan’s longest-running cup competition.

Miura scored both goals as third-tier Fukushima United thrashed non-league Oyama Soccer Club 7-0 in the 106th edition of the Emperor’s Cup.

The striker, now in his 42nd season as a professional, had already scored in the competition’s qualifying rounds in late July.

His brace was particularly remarkable as it marked the first time Miura had scored more than once in a match since finding the net twice for Australian club Sydney FC in November 2005.

Miura, who became Japan’s first football superstar after the professional J. League was launched in the early 1990s, said he has maintained a regular penalty-taking routine.

"You never know when it might be your turn," he told reporters after Wednesday’s match.

"That's why I practise them all the time. I'm glad it paid off."

The two penalties moved Miura past the previous record for the oldest Emperor’s Cup goalscorer, held by former Japan international Shinji Ono, who was 41 when he scored.

Miura started the match as Fukushima’s captain and remained on the pitch until being substituted in the 58th minute.

He converted his first penalty in the 12th minute before scoring again from the spot in the 55th minute after being brought down inside the box.

"There was a unique, quiet atmosphere with none of the opposition fans booing," he said.

"I could feel everyone's eyes on me. I'm glad I could put them away in those circumstances."

Miura began his professional career with Brazilian club Santos in 1986 and went on to play in Italy, Croatia, Australia and Portugal.

He made his Japan debut in 1990 and scored 55 goals in 89 international appearances. However, he was controversially left out of Japan’s squad for its first World Cup finals appearance in 1998.

Miura joined Fukushima United in January and said he wanted to repay the club’s faith in him by contributing goals and assists.