8 Jan 2004(Thu)

The world discovered in 2002 that Japan can stage a super soccer show, namely the FIFA World Cup.

Those of us who live here knew that anyway, because national team games, J.League exhibitions and other one-off matches such as the Toyota Cup are always a spectacular occasion.

At Tokyo's National Stadium on Sunday, Japanese football came together to honour one of its most distinguished and deserving servants: Masami Ihara.

More than 40 players, including past and present national team stars, as well as the legendary Korean duo of Yoo Sang Chul and Hong Myung Bo, took part in a testimonial match for Japan's 1998 World Cup captain.

Although Ihara retired a year ago, more than 31,000 fans went along to show their appreciation.

The game provided some old masters, such as Kimura (Kazushi, not Bunji!) and Ruy Ramos, the chance to turn back the clock and strut their stuff on the National Stadium stage once again.

We were also treated to a glimpse of what might have been in the troubled form of Maezono, who had the talent but lost his way.

It was after the final whistle, though, when the emotions ran high.

The music was designed to produce tears, but none from Ihara, who remained as professional as ever.

He symbolically removed his silver boots and captain's armband (sorry to be cynical here folks, but this looked suspiciously like a Nike publicity stunt), said his farewell speech on the podium, received some flowers from Gon, and performed two laps of honour.

The first was on foot, the second in the back of what looked like a pitch maintenance vehicle, but it was hard to see because of all the balloons. Maybe it was a Mercedes.

The handshakes and respect from his fellow players was genuine, as Ihara, with 123 caps and 297 J.League appearances, is one of the all-time greats for Japan.

"He was one of the first real professionals," said Hans Ooft. "I don't mean by getting a salary, but with his whole attitude and behaviour.

"When you look back 10 years from now you will say he made a huge contribution.

"As a captain he had great personality. Not a great speaker, but his presence was enough to inspire people. That is quality."

So was the afternoon itself.

ends