Japan Beats New Zealand to Win Kirin Cup

Oct 05, 2026 | News On Japan

TOKYO - Japan defeated New Zealand 2-1 in the Kirin Cup final at MUFG Stadium, formerly the National Stadium, in Tokyo on October 5, securing the title in what was head coach Hajime Moriyasu's final home match before stepping down.

Japan took the lead in the first half through Ayase Ueda of Lille, but New Zealand equalized after capitalizing on a Japanese mistake.

Ritsu Doan of Eintracht Frankfurt then scored the decisive goal in the second half to restore Japan's advantage and seal the 2-1 victory.

The match marked Moriyasu's final appearance in charge of the national team on home soil. He is scheduled to leave his post following the Asian Cup, which begins in Saudi Arabia in January next year.

Moriyasu spoke at a press conference following the victory.

Source: Kyodo

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