Shunsuke Nakamura inaugurates the historical scorers’ book of the KWC Nations

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, Italy, with 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 Azzurra, capitalizing 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.

Blur, with 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.

Next Opponent: Argentina

After securing the first-ever victory in the history of the KWC Nations, Japan will face Argentina on January 3 at 16:00. A clash where the Japanese side, presided over by Junichi Kato, will aim to secure a direct spot in the quarterfinals.

While Japan defeated Italy 3-1 in their debut in the Kings World Cup adventure, Argentina overcame Spain 4-2 to advance on the winners’ side of the bracket.

Thus, the second round of the KWCN brings us an exciting showdown where both the Japanese and Argentinians will give their all to avoid heading to the Last Chance.