Masami Ihara

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Records

Masami Ihara's career is defined by longevity and leadership. Captaining Japan for over a decade, he helped guide the nation to its first World Cup and an Asian Cup title. His 122 caps were a national record for years, and his inclusion in the IFFHS Asia Team of the Century places him among the continent's all-time greats. His legacy as a defender is unmatched in Japanese football.

AwardsIhara's career was marked by team success and individual recognition. He won the AFC Asian Cup with Japan in 1992 and was named to the IFFHS Asia Team of the XXth Century. He is also a member of the Japan Soccer Hall of Fame.

Honours & Distinctions

Japan Soccer Hall of Fame

Japan Football Association·2019

Inducted for his contributions to Japanese football as a player and captain.

Rankings & Lists

#Selected

IFFHS Asia Team of the XXth Century

IFFHS·2000

Records & Feats

Most international caps for Japan (until 2012)

Career Milestone·2002

Held the record of 122 caps from 2002 until Yasuhito Endo surpassed it in 2012.