Japan has arrived at the Kings World Cup Nations 2025 eager to prove that they are capable of facing great challenges. This was evident in their debut, where the Japanese team defeated the host, Italywith Shunsuke Nakamura as the MVP of the match.
Shunsuke Nakamura, a new legend in the Nations
The Japanese forward, Nakamura, was the star of the first match of the Kings World Cup Nations. A duel in which his team faced none other than the hosts of the championship.
However, the Japanese overcame this extraordinary challenge with a solid victory against La Bluecapitalizing on the lead they had secured by halftime.
A difference they achieved by the end of the first half, thanks to Nakamura’s goal, which broke the initial deadlock in the 13th minute of the game.
Thus, Japan’s number 74 inaugurated the historical scorers’ book of the KWC Nations with his name. A goal that was followed by one from Keisuke Fukaya (19′), who took advantage of the three-on-three situation after the dice roll.
Blurwith his Presidential Penalty for Italy, narrowed the gap in the 35th minute. However, Shohei Agata’s goal (37′) sealed the 3-1 scoreline, sending Japan to the second round on the winners’ side.
An old acquaintance in Europe
Shunsuke Nakamura is a former Japanese footballer who played in the top leagues of Italy, Scotland, and Spain in Europe. His career includes stints with Reggina Calcio, Celtic Glasgow, and RCD Espanyol.
Additionally, on the international stage, he played 98 official matches for Japan’s senior national team after debuting in February 2000. During this time, he scored 24 goals and won the Asian Cup twice (2000 and 2004).
Now, at 46 years old, he seeks to add a new title to his collection in the Kings World Cup Nations. But first, he must take another step in the tournament, facing Argentina on January 3.
