Former Japanese national midfielder Daisuke Matsui celebrated his retirement from professional football with a remarkable farewell match on the 15th at Nipatsu Mitsuzawa Stadium, where he scored seven goals and delighted approximately 13,000 fans.
Matsui, who played for several top clubs including Kyoto Purple Sanga and Le Mans, expressed his gratitude during his post-match press conference. "It was a happy time to be seen off by so many people," he said, reflecting on both the match and the support he received throughout his career.
Entering the field to raucous cheers, Matsui's performance rekindled memories of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where he contributed to Japan's impressive run to the Round of 16. He scored three goals just before halftime, showcasing the skill and flair he became known for. The match also featured significant performances from other well-known players such as King Kazu Miura and Keisuke Honda, who proudly noted, "I have to thank Daisuke for the big moments we shared" as they executed key plays from their past.
Among the memorable moments of the game was the reenactment of Matsui's assist to Honda during the 2010 World Cup match against Cameroon. Honda recalled, "At first, I didn't realize we were recreasing our past
moment until later on. But it’s one of those moments I cherish most and I have Daisuke to thank for it.” This nostalgic play thrilled fans, who appreciated the blend of past and present.
Later, the match included another emotional highlight as Matsui orchestrated the last penalty kick taken by his former teammate Yuichi Komano. Komano, who had famously missed his shot during the World Cup, found redemption on this day when he successfully scored, eliciting wild cheers from the crowd. Matsui, reflecting on this moment, shared, "I planned it to help Komano move past the shadows of the past. I hope he can now look forward to new beginnings."
After the festivities settled, Matsui spoke candidly about his future. He outlined his aspiration to pursue coaching and emphasized the significance of Futsal, stating, "I want to merge my experiences and create synergy by engaging with this sport more actively.” He conveyed his excitement for establishing himself as a coach across various clubs—confirming his desire to avoid being tied to just one team—"I want to work everywhere!" he remarked, showcasing his enthusiasm.
Matsui’s plans include not just coaching but also potential entrepreneurial initiatives aimed at fostering football's growth and giving back to the community. "I hope to start my own business," he mentioned, signaling his ambitions to not only remain connected to football but also contribute to the sport's development significantly. He expressed intentions to help nurture talented players, saying, "I hope to bring out good players, even if it’s not at the level of representing Japan."
Reflecting on his career filled with remarkable achievements, Matsui emphasized football's role as more than just a sport to him. "Football is like a new tool for connecting people; it's part of my life and certainly connects me to many others," he articulated with heartfelt sincerity.
Daisuke Matsui’s retirement marks the end of a venerated chapter in Japanese football, leaving behind memories of brilliance and inspiring future generations to find their paths within the beautiful game. His contributions to the sport, both on and off the field, are sure to leave lasting legacies of connection and community framed within the joy of football.
