Daisuke Matsui, the former Japanese international midfielder, marked the end of his illustrious soccer career with his farewell match on December 15, 2023, at Nippatsu Mitsuzawa Stadium in Yokohama. The event, titled Le dernier dribble: STARSEEDS SPECIAL MATCH, attracted over 10,000 fans who came to pay tribute to the talented player known for his exceptional dribbling skills and contributions to Japan's national team.
Matsui, who started his professional career with Kyoto Purple Sanga, played for several clubs across Europe and rejoined the J-League with Jubilo Iwata before retiring at the end of the 2023 season. After his retirement, he embarked on his coaching path at the Yokohama FC soccer school. The match featured two teams: MATSUI FRIENDS—which included popular figures like 'King Kazu' Kazuyoshi Miura and former national teammates—and JAPAN DREAMS, composed primarily of former Japanese national players.
The match began with high intensity and saw Matsui immediately show flashes of his signature talents. Just four minutes in, he combined with Takuto Sakai to create the first scoring chance for his team, MATSUI FRIENDS. Matsui, demonstrating his familiar dribbling prowess, set up Miura, whose effort was saved. The crowd was thrilled to see Matsui’s creativity on the field.
At the nine-minute mark, Matsui struck his first goal, demonstrating his perfect positioning to capitalize on Miura’s failed shot. The atmosphere was electric as Matsui netted not just one but three goals within the first half, reminding spectators of his peak performance days. He scored again at the 18th minute and then completed his hat trick just before halftime, bringing memories of Matsui's stunning performances back to life.
Fans erupted with excitement as JAPAN DREAMS, led by players like Keisuke Honda and Shinji Kagawa, rallied to respond. Honda and Daisuke Matsui's previous chemistry from the 2010 World Cup was on full display, as Honda scored following one of Matsui's assists. The rivalry intensified as the first half concluded with JAPAN DREAMS leading 5-2.
During the halftime break, attendees were treated to special moments, including tributes and performances, like the heartfelt flower presentation from Miura to Matsui, symbolizing their enduring friendship and camaraderie on the pitch. The occasion was not just about the game but also about celebrating Matsui's accomplishments and the bonds he formed throughout his career.
Following the break, the teams continued to trade goals, and as substitutions changed the dynamics on the field, it was Matsui who continued to shine. The second half was filled with brilliant plays, but Matsui added to his tally, scoring his fourth and fifth goals and demonstrating his continuing skill and passion for the game.
At the 85th minute, Matsui executed a bicycle kick, where he beautifully found the net once again, capping off his impressive performance with five goals total—making the score 12-6 by the end of the match, with impressive contributions from both teams.
After the final whistle, Matsui expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the fans. "I feel really lucky to have shared this moment with all of you. Your support has meant everything to me, even during tough times," he said, evoking applause from the crowd.
The match concluded with emotional scenes as Matsui shared hugs and laughter with friends and teammates, including touching moments from many who remembered their journeys shared with him on and off the field. The match not only celebrated Matsui's remarkable achievements but also paved the way for his future as he transitions fully to coaching.
Now, as Matsui steps away from competitive play, he looks to inspire the next generation of players. He remarked, "I want to teach the joy of soccer to kids and perhaps help nurture Japan's next star players." With this farewell match, Matsui leaves behind not only memories etched within the league but also countless friendships solidified through years of competition and success.
Fans left the stadium feeling the impact of Matsui's legacy, and everyone present knew they had witnessed the end of one era and the beginning of another for the beloved player, who will always remain part of Japan's soccer history.
