Miura sets record as oldest player in professional soccer at 58

Kazuyoshi Miura (58), known as the 'eternal active player,' has set a new world record for the oldest appearance in professional soccer.

On the 15th, Miura appeared as a forward for Atletico Suzuka in the 12th round of the Japan Professional Football Fourth Division match against YSCC Yokohama.

Miura, who was waiting on the bench, came on as a substitute for Kirita in the 37th minute of the second half. That day, he played in his 40th professional season at the age of 58 years and 109 days, setting a new record for the oldest professional player appearance in world football history.

Thanks to Miura's experience, Suzuka won 2-1. Miura enjoyed the joy of both being the oldest player on the field and winning.

Miura was a representative forward of Japan in the 1990s. He is of similar age to Hwang Sun-hong, Kim Do-hoon, and Choi Yong-soo. At that time, Hong Myung-bo, the current team coach, closely marked Miura regarding World Cup participation.

Known by the nickname 'King Kazu,' he scored 55 goals in 89 A matches. The oldest player in world football, he made his professional debut in 1986 with Pele's former team, Santos.

Miura has played not only in Japan but also in Brazil, Italy, Croatia, Australia, and Portugal. Ahead of this season, he signed a contract with the Japan Professional Football Fourth Division and continued his active career.

Japanese media have reported that 'Miura no longer has the ability to play as a professional player, but he is forced to play to maintain the record for the oldest appearance. The club is also accepting Miura as a player for the sake of publicity.'

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