Japan's Emperor's Cup regional qualifiers feature record streaks and a 59‑year‑old star's goal

The Japan Football Association announced the prefectural champions for the 106th Emperor's Cup. In the finals, Gainer Tottori defeated Yonago Genki SC 2‑0 to claim its 28th appearance, Kamatamare Sanuki beat SONIO Takamatsu 4‑0 for its 26th appearance, and Kochi United SC overcame KUFC Nanokuni 4‑0, marking an 11‑year streak of participation.

In a separate prefectural final, Fukushima United FC routed Iwaki Furukawa FC 7‑0. The match featured a historic moment when 59‑year‑old Kaz Miura (三浦知良) scored his first official goal in almost four years, helping secure Fukushima’s qualification for the main tournament.

These results set the stage for the first‑round matches beginning on August 19, where the newly‑qualified teams will face representatives from other prefectures.