Kazuyoshi Miura added another remarkable chapter to his career by scoring his first competitive goal in almost four years at the age of 59 for Japanese third-tier side Fukushima United.
The veteran forward found the net during Fukushima's emphatic Emperor's Cup victory on Saturday, extending a career that is set to continue into a 42nd season after his loan spell with the club was prolonged until June 2027.
Kazuyoshi Miura's goal ends long scoring wait
Miura scored in the 52nd minute as Fukushima United took a 5-0 lead over Iwaki Furukawa before eventually sealing a 7-0 victory in the Emperor's Cup.
It was the veteran striker's first competitive goal since November 2022, when he scored for Suzuka PG, now known as Atletico Suzuka, against FC Osaka.
The strike marked the end of a lengthy wait for another goal while reinforcing Miura's status as the world's oldest professional footballer.
Fukushima United extend Miura loan
Miura's long career will continue after Fukushima United extended his loan from J2 League club Yokohama FC until June 2027.
The forward has been under contract with Yokohama FC since 2005, although he has not played a minute for the club since 2020.
The extension means Miura's professional career is now set to enter its 42nd season.
King Kazu's career spans four decades
Known throughout Japan as "King Kazu," Miura became one of the country's most recognisable sporting figures and the face of the J. League when the competition launched in 1993.
His professional journey began with Brazilian club Santos in 1986 before he also played club football in Italy, Croatia, and Australia.
Across his international career, Miura scored 55 goals in 89 appearances for Japan.
Kazuyoshi Miura still chasing new milestones
Miura has previously spoken about his ambition to continue playing into his 60s, and his latest goal provides another milestone in his extraordinary career.
By extending his stay at Fukushima United and continuing to find the net, the veteran striker remains active at the professional level nearly four decades after making his senior debut.