Kaoru Mitoma vs Yasuhito Endo
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.
Yasuhito Endo
Japan · 2004–19 · CDM
- Almanac rating
- 86
- Rank in Japan
- #10 of 33
- Caps
- 152 · 15 goals
- Clubs
- Kyoto Sanga, Gamba Osaka, Júbilo Iwata
No one has played more J.League football than Endo's 672 matches, and on 2 August 2019 he came off the bench for Gamba Osaka against Vissel Kobe to reach 1,000 official appearances. Two Asian Cups came with Japan, in 2004 and 2011, and his 152 caps remain the national record; Gamba Osaka brought the 2008 AFC Champions League and its best player award, two J1 titles and four Emperor's Cups, plus Asian Footballer of the Year in 2009. Career record: 152 caps and 15 goals for Japan; club career at Kyoto Sanga, Gamba Osaka, Júbilo Iwata.
The verdict
The almanac cannot separate them: both are rated 86.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.