Kaoru Mitoma vs Makoto Hasebe
Japan against Japan. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Kaoru Mitoma
Japan · 2018–26 · LM
- Almanac rating
- 86
- Rank in Japan
- #6 of 33
- Clubs
- University of Tsukuba Football Club, Kawasaki Frontale, Brighton & Hove Albion
With the ball apparently gone over the byline in Doha on 2 December 2022, Mitoma stretched and hooked it back a fraction inside, and Ao Tanaka turned in the goal that beat Spain 2-1. He won the J1 League and Emperor's Cup double with Kawasaki Frontale in 2020, was Japanese footballer of the year in 2021, and his solo goal against Chelsea was voted the Premier League's goal of the season in 2024-25. Career record: club career at University of Tsukuba Football Club, Kawasaki Frontale, Brighton & Hove Albion.
Makoto Hasebe
Japan · 2007–22 · CDM
- Almanac rating
- 87
- Rank in Japan
- #4 of 33
- Clubs
- Urawa Red Diamonds, VfL Wolfsburg, Eintracht Frankfurt
Frankfurt trusted him with the armband deep into his thirties, and on 6 June 2020 he went past Cha Bum-kun as the Asian player with the most Bundesliga appearances, finishing his career on 380. He captained Japan to the 2011 Asian Cup and through three World Cups, won the 2022 Europa League and 2018 DFB-Pokal at Frankfurt, the 2009 Bundesliga with Wolfsburg, and the 2007 AFC Champions League with Urawa. Career record: club career at Urawa Red Diamonds, VfL Wolfsburg, Eintracht Frankfurt.
The verdict
The almanac puts Makoto Hasebe ahead by 1 rating point, 87 against 86.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.