Frankfurt’s winger Ritsu Dōan captained Japan and netted the decisive goal against New Zealand in the 2026 Kirin Cup final.
His 71st‑minute strike broke the deadlock after Ben Old equalised Ayase Ueda’s first‑half opener.
Defender Hiroki Ito (Bayern) and midfielder Kaishu Sano (Mainz) started, while substitutes Satoshi Tanaka (Schalke) and Kento Shiogai (Wolfsburg) helped the hosts lift the trophy before more than 60,000 fans in Tokyo.
Japan secured their 12th title, having edged Ecuador on penalties in the semi‑final of the four‑team event that has varied formats since 1978.
Werder Bremen claimed the cup twice in its early club‑national era, and Borussia Mönchengladbach shared the inaugural win with Palmeiras. For my money, those early club victories highlighted the tournament’s unique charm.