Hiroki Sakai scores first goal of season for Auckland FC

Hiroki Sakai, the 36-year-old former Japan national team defender, scored his first goal of the season during Auckland FC’s A-League match against Brisbane Roar on October 30.

In the 11th minute of the match, Sakai capitalized on a loose ball outside the penalty area following a cleared cross. He struck a powerful, low-trajectory right-footed shot from distance that found the left corner of the goal.

Despite Sakai’s opening goal, Auckland FC ended the match in a 1-1 draw after conceding a goal during second-half stoppage time. Sakai, who joined the New Zealand-based club after leaving Urawa Reds, remains a key player for the team following their league title win last season.