Makoto Hasebe, former captain of the Japan national football team and German 1st division player Frankfurt, participated in a friendly match against Urawa Red Diamonds, which was held at Saitama Stadium, and received warm cheers from the fans.
Former captain of the Japan national football team, Hasebe played for Urawa Red Diamonds for six seasons from 2002, and now belongs to Frankfurt, a powerhouse in the German first division.
On the night of the 16th, the team played their first match of the Japan tour in Saitama Stadium against Urawa Red Diamonds, their old club.
Hasebe had to start the match on the bench due to a knee injury, but from the first half he prepared by running and passing practice on the side of the pitch.
When they entered the pitch in the 30th minute of the second half, they received a big round of applause and warm cheers from more than 24,000 fans packed into the venue.
Hasebe created a chance by cutting the opponent's pass with his light movements, and hit a mid-range shot to get the fans excited.
In the match, Urawa Red Diamonds beat Frankfurt 4-2.
Hasebe said, “I am very happy to be able to play against my old team in Japan and play in front of many Urawa supporters. I was moved. I couldn't be happier than this."
Frankfurt will face Gamba Osaka on the 19th of this month at Panasonic Stadium Suita in Osaka.