Japanese players continue to make their mark across various European leagues, showcasing their skills and determination on the global stage. In a thrilling Spanish La Liga match, Takuma Asano played a pivotal role in Mallorca's comeback victory against Espanyol. The forward, who was initially left out of Japan's World Cup qualifier squad, demonstrated his value by scoring an equalizing goal in the 65th minute with a diving header. This followed an earlier own goal by Mallorca’s Vedat Muriqi, which had given Espanyol the lead. Despite the setback, Asano’s team rallied and eventually claimed victory through a late penalty.

Meanwhile, in Germany's Bundesliga, Ritsu Doan contributed significantly to Freiburg's draw against Mainz. His precise pass led to Lukas Kubler’s equalizer in the 79th minute, securing a point for Freiburg despite Mainz playing with ten men. On the opposing side, Kaishu Sano, another Japanese talent, completed the full game for Mainz, reinforcing his status as a key player in the team that currently holds third place in the league standings. These performances highlight the growing influence of Japanese footballers in some of Europe's top divisions.

In England, Kaoru Mitoma celebrated his 100th appearance for Brighton with a spirited performance against Manchester City, even though a controversial decision ruled out one of his goals. Known for his dynamic play, Mitoma recently earned recognition for scoring the English Premier League’s goal of the month. His efforts have kept Brighton in contention for European qualification, reflecting the club's upward trajectory under his influence. These achievements underscore the dedication and resilience of Japanese athletes abroad, inspiring young players back home to aim high and strive for excellence in their careers. Their successes not only elevate their personal profiles but also enhance the reputation of Japanese football globally.