Japan Dominates Myanmar with Nakamura and Ogawa Scoring Braces in 5-0 Victory
Keito Nakamura and Koki Ogawa both scored two goals each as Japan secured a convincing 5-0 victory over Myanmar in the Asian second round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The Samurai Blue, who have already qualified for the next round, maintained their perfect record after five games.
In the match held at Thuwunna Stadium in Yangon, Japan took the lead with goals from Nakamura and Ritsu Doan in the first half. Nakamura opened the scoring in the 17th minute after a well-executed play by Daichi Kamada, while Doan found the back of the net in the 34th minute.
Ogawa, who had a quiet first half, redeemed himself by scoring twice in the second half. His first goal came in the 75th minute off a cross from Yuki Soma, and he completed his brace seven minutes later after capitalizing on a defensive error by Myanmar.
Nakamura sealed the victory for Japan with a magnificent curling shot from 20 meters out, marking his eighth goal in nine games for the national team.
Japan will play their final game of the round against Syria in Hiroshima on Tuesday.
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**Biography:**
Keito Nakamura:
Early Life: Keito Nakamura was born on April 23, 2001, in Japan.
Education: Information not available.
Career: Nakamura is a professional footballer who currently plays as a winger for Reims in Ligue 1. He has also represented the Japan national team.
Notable Achievements: Nakamura has scored eight goals in nine games for Japan, including a brace against Myanmar in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Personal Life: Information not available.
Other: Nakamura’s impressive performances have garnered attention from top European clubs.