Yu Kobayashi announces retirement
Kawasaki Frontale forward Yu Kobayashi announced his retirement at a club news conference, confirming he will hang up his boots on January 1, 2027. A one‑club man for 17 years, Kobayashi leaves with 405 J1 appearances and 144 goals; he said he plans to finish his career at Kawasaki and give fans a final fighting display.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
Hayakawa shines with composed goalkeeping for Japan
Kashima Antlers goalkeeper Tomoki Hayakawa produced a string of sharp saves for Japan in the 3–1 friendly win over Uruguay on September 24. Earning his fifth cap, Hayakawa conceded early but then made several important stops that helped protect the team and contributed to the momentum for Japan’s two late goals.
Source: 日刊スポーツ
Japan beat Uruguay 3–1
On September 24 at Q&A Stadium Miyagi Japan defeated Uruguay 3–1 in an international friendly. Debutant Kusué Matsuki opened the scoring, Kento Shiogai netted a dramatic winner late in the second half and Ayase Ueda added a third. Manager Moriyasu’s revamped squad started its campaign with a morale‑boosting victory.
Source: 日刊スポーツ