Keisuke Honda (本田 圭佑, Honda Keisuke, born 13 June 1986) is a Japanese professional footballer and manager who plays as a midfielder.

Keisuke Honda
Honda with Japan at the 2018 FIFA World Cup
Personal information
Full name Keisuke Honda[1]
Date of birth (1986-06-13) 13 June 1986 (age 38)[1]
Place of birth Settsu, Osaka, Japan
Height 1.82 m (6 ft 0 in)[1]
Position(s) Attacking midfielder
Youth career
1994–1998 Settsu
1999–2001 Gamba Osaka
2002–2004 Seiryo High School
Senior career*
Years Team Apps (Gls)
2004–2008 Nagoya Grampus Eight 90 (11)
2008–2009 VVV-Venlo 68 (24)
2010–2013 CSKA Moscow 94 (20)
2014–2017 AC Milan 81 (11)
2017–2018 Pachuca 29 (10)
2018–2019 Melbourne Victory 18 (7)
2019 Vitesse 4 (0)
2020 Botafogo 22 (3)
2021 Portimonense 0 (0)
2021 Neftçi Baku 7 (2)
2021 Sūduva 6 (1)
2024 Paro 5 (2)
International career
2005 Japan U20 1 (0)
2006–2008 Japan U23 18 (5)
2008–2018 Japan 98 (37)
Managerial career
2018–2023 Cambodia
2023 Cambodia U-23
Medal record
Representing  Japan
AFC Asian Cup
Winner 2011 Qatar
*Club domestic league appearances and goals

A versatile player, Honda usually played as an Attacking midfielder, but could also play as a winger, a false nine or as a deep-lying playmaker,[2][3][4] and frequently featured as a right winger for Milan during the 2014–15 season. A quick and creative player, he was also known for his accuracy from bending free-kicks, powerful striking ability from distance, dribbling skills and delivery as a set-piece specialist.

Honda earned over 90 international caps between 2008 and 2018, playing at the 2010, 2014 and 2018 World Cups. He was also part of the squad which won the 2011 Asian Cup, where he was also voted Player of the Tournament.

Club career

edit

Early career

edit
 
Honda playing for VVV-Venlo in 2008

Born and raised in Settsu, Honda had belonged to the local junior youth team at Gamba Osaka, but was not promoted to the youth team.[5] When Honda was a Seiryo High School student, he made an appearance at J.League Cup as Special Designated Youth Player in 2004. After graduating high school, he began his professional career in 2005, with J1 League side Nagoya Grampus Eight.

On 16 January 2008, Honda signed a two and half-year deal with Eredivisie side VVV-Venlo.[6][7] In his first six months at VVV, he experienced relegation for the first time in his professional career as his new side went down to Eerste Divisie, the second division. In the 2008–09 season, he scored 16 goals in 36 league appearances to help the team back into the Eredivisie.[8] He became known as Keizer Keisuke (meaning Emperor Keisuke) among the club's fans.[9] Also, Honda introduced his agent, Tetsuro Kiyooka, to Maya Yoshida in 2008 and led him to VVV-Venlo two years later.[10]

CSKA Moscow

edit
 
Honda with CSKA Moscow in 2010

At the end of December 2009, Honda transferred to Russian club CSKA Moscow.[11] Honda signed a 4-year contract.[12] The transfer fee was undisclosed, but VVV-Venlo was said to be very content with the fee as it almost matched their asking price; it is believed to be in the region of €6 million.[9] Honda made his debut for CSKA in the UEFA Champions League match against Sevilla.[13] In the second leg in Seville, he scored the winning goal through a direct free kick for CSKA after having set up the first goal for Tomáš Necid. This secured a 2–1 (3–2 aggregate) victory to send the club to the quarterfinals, making Honda the first Japanese player to be in the quarter-finals as well as the first to score in the knock-out stages. Honda scored his first league goal on 12 March 2010, in the home match against Amkar Perm. He scored the goal in the third minute of injury time, slotting home a pass from Necid with his left. With the goal, he secured the win for CSKA Moscow.

Honda picked up his first piece of silverware with CSKA on 22 May 2011, coming on as a second-half substitute for Alan Dzagoev in a 2–1 defeat of Alania Vladikavkaz in the Russian Cup final.[14] He netted two goals in the first half of CSKA's match against Krylia Sovetov three days later, a match that ended in a 3–0 victory for his side.[15] On 16 September 2012, Honda scored twice off passes from Ahmed Musa, scoring the only goals in a league victory over Alania.[16]

On 13 July 2013, Honda scored CSKA's first and third goals in the club's 3–0 victory over Zenit in the Russian Super Cup match in Rostov.[17] In 2013 summer transfer window, he entered the final six months of his contract with CSKA and became free to talk to other clubs, expressing his interest in moving to a bigger club. On 11 December 2013, CSKA announced the conclusion of Honda's time at the club.[18]

Milan

edit
 
Honda playing for AC Milan in 2015

On 27 October 2013, Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri announced a deal for Honda to join Milan on a free transfer in January 2014.[19][20] Honda officially joined the team on 4 January 2014 on a contract lasting until June 2017 and wore the number 10 jersey.[21][22]

On 12 January 2014, Honda made his debut coming on as a substitute for Robinho in a 4–3 Serie A defeat to Sassuolo. On 15 January, Honda made his full debut for Milan,[23] scoring in the 3–1 Coppa Italia quarter-final win against Spezia.[24] He scored his first Serie A goal in Genoa-Milan, which was won by the Rossoneri 1–2.[25] Honda's contribution for Milan in the latter half of the 2013–14 season was considered disappointing, and he himself stated that "this is not me".[26]

On 31 August 2014, Honda scored for Milan against Lazio, netting the club's first goal of the season as the Rossoneri won 3–1 in Filippo Inzaghi's Serie A debut as manager.[27] Honda went on to score Milan's second goal against Parma on 14 September, helping Milan to win a nine-goal thriller, 5–4.[28] Honda provided an assist for Giacomo Bonaventura's opening goal and scored a bullet header to restore Milan's lead, from Ignazio Abate's cross.[29] In Milan's next match against Empoli, Honda drilled in a shot on the edge of the box equalizing for Milan as the sides drew 2–2.[30] Honda scored with a precise free kick over the Chievo wall in a 2–0 win on 4 October.[31] Honda scored his first brace playing for Milan in a 3–1 away win against Verona on 19 October. On 21 May 2017, Honda scored against Bologna winning the game and thus qualifying Milan to the Europa League for the first time since the 2013–14 season from a free kick.

Pachuca

edit

On 14 July 2017, Mexican club Pachuca announced the signing of Honda. On 23 August 2017, Honda scored on his debut in a 4–1 win over Veracruz.

Melbourne Victory

edit
 
Honda playing for Melbourne Victory in 2019

On 6 August 2018, Honda signed for Australian A-League side Melbourne Victory.[32] He scored on his A-League debut, in Victory's opening game of the 2018–19 A-League, a 2–1 loss to Melbourne City in the Melbourne Derby.[33] On 3 May 2019, Honda announced that he would leave the club at the end of the 2018–19 A-League season, also stating that he would not sign with an A-League team following his departure.[34]

Vitesse

edit

In the succeeding September, Honda publicly offered, on Twitter, to play for Manchester United and A.C. Milan.[35] On 6 November 2019, he signed a contract for one season at Eredivisie club Vitesse Arnhem. However, after Leonid Slutsky's departure, Honda decided to also leave Vitesse after only four league appearances.[36][37]

Botafogo

edit

On 31 January 2020, Honda signed with Campeonato Brasileiro Série A side Botafogo.[38] On 15 March, he made his debut and scored his first goal, opening the score from a penalty kick in a 1–1 draw against Bangu in the Campeonato Carioca.[39] He left the club on 28 December, three months shy of the end of his contract, stating his frustration with the lack of results and the decisions by the club's board, which had changed head coaches four times during the season, while also thanking and apologising to the fans.[40][41] He made 27 appearances across all competitions and scored three goals.

Portimonense

edit

On 4 February 2021, Honda announced that he had reached an agreement with Primeira Liga club Portimonense.[42] The signing was officially confirmed two days later, with Honda joining the Portuguese side on a six-month deal with the option for a one-year extension.[43] The deal, however, broke down after Portmonense was unable to register him in the league, as a LPFP ruling required free agent players to be at least three months in that status in order to be registered outside of the transfer window period; Honda had spent less than two months out of contract.[44] He parted ways with the club amicably on 11 February.[45]

Neftçi

edit

On 15 March 2021, Honda joined Azerbaijan Premier League club Neftçi PFK on a deal until the end of the season.[46] At the end of the season, Keisuke Honda won Azerbaijan Premier League title with Neftçi.[47]

On 16 June 2021, Neftçi confirmed that Honda had left the club after the expiration of his contract, during which he scored twice in seven games for the club.[48]

Sūduva

edit

On 14 September 2021, Honda joined Lithuanian A Lyga club Sūduva on a deal until 31 December 2021.[49]

Paro FC

edit

Following a two-and-a-half-year break and taking on managerial duties, Bhutan Premier League side Paro FC announced Honda's return to professional football on 29 July 2024. He initially joined Paro on a one-match contract to play in the AFC Challenge League play-off against Church Boys United.[50]

International career

edit

Youth career and early senior career

edit

Honda was a member of the Japan team for 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship and played for the U-23 national team, that qualified for 2008 Summer Olympics finals. He made a full international debut for Japan on 22 June 2008 in a World Cup qualifier against Bahrain. On 14 July 2008, he was formally named as one of the midfielders of the Japanese U-23 national football team for the Beijing Olympics football competition.[51] He scored his first goal for the senior national team on 27 May 2009 in a friendly match against Chile at Nagai Stadium in Osaka and has since been given the nickname "Emperor Keisuke". He has scored 37 goals in 98 games for the Japan national team from his debut in 2008, onwards.

2010 FIFA World Cup

edit
 
Honda playing for Japan at the 2010 FIFA World Cup

Honda rose to prominence in the 2010 FIFA World Cup and became the country's newest prospect. He scored the only goal in Japan's opening match against Cameroon, finishing off Daisuke Matsui's cross into the top left corner of the net.[52] His performance in the game gained him the Man of the Match Award from FIFA and the 1–0 victory was Japan's first World Cup triumph on foreign soil.[53] In the final group-stage game against Denmark, he scored a magnificent free kick in the 17th minute from 30 yards out.[54] He then turned provider for Shinji Okazaki after making his way into the penalty area, with a Cruyff Turn that beat a Denmark player, in the 88th minute to make the score 3–1 to Japan, a performance that earned him the "Man of the Match" award once more and qualified Japan for the knockout stage.[55] In their round of 16 matchup, Japan were eliminated by Paraguay, falling 3–5 in penalty kicks after the game finished goalless through extra time.[56]

Jonathan Wilson of The Guardian cited him as a 'false nine': a player superficially employed as a centre forward but moving deeper to pull the opposition defence around the pitch.[57]

2011 AFC Asian Cup

edit

Honda was included in the 2011 AFC Asian Cup by coach Alberto Zaccheroni. In the game against Syria, he scored a penalty kick making the score 2–1 for Japan. In the semi-finals against South Korea, he took a penalty kick, but was blocked by Jung Sung-Ryong. However, in the penalty shoot out of the game, he scored and was named "Man of the Match".[58] Honda was awarded the most valuable player of the 2011 AFC Asian Cup as Japan lifted a record fourth continental title.[59]

2014 FIFA World Cup qualification

edit

Honda missed the majority of the third round of AFC World Cup qualification due to injury he picked up while playing for his club.[60]

During the fourth round of qualifying, on 3 June 2012, in Japan's first game in Group B against Oman, Honda scored a beautiful volley just eleven minutes into the game. The game ended in 3–0 a win for Japan.[61] He continued his scoring streak against Jordan on 8 June 2012, managing to net a hat-trick; Japan went on to win 6–0.[62] He also played a crucial role during their 1–1 draw with Australia on 12 June 2012, during a corner kick, he assisted a goal which was scored by Yuzo Kurihara.[63]

He missed a couple of friendly games and one qualification game due to injury from club duty and was subsequently not included in the squad that was shocked 2-1 by Jordan on 26 March 2013.[64][65] Although not 100 percent fit, Honda was named in the squad for the game against Australia on 4 June 2013, having just won the Russian Cup with his club.[citation needed] All Japan needed from this match was a draw to secure their place for Brazil. He managed to score a goal via penalty kick during extra time from a handball from Matt McKay, making the score 1–1.[66] The result secured Japan's qualification for the World Cup in Brazil and became the first nation to book their place at the tournament.[67]

Having won the 2011 AFC Asian Cup, Japan qualified for the Confederations Cup in Brazil in 2013 and Honda was once again included in Zaccheroni's squad for the tournament.[68] After losing 3–0 to hosts Brazil in the first group match on 15 June 2013,[69] Japan faced Italy in the next game; Honda scored from the penalty spot to put Japan ahead but they fell 4–3 in a pulsating game which dumped the Asian champions out of the competition.[70]

2014 FIFA World Cup

edit

Japan was drawn into Group C in the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil having to face Colombia, Greece, and Ivory Coast. In Japan's opening game against Ivory Coast, Honda collected a pass from Yuto Nagatomo after a quick throw-in and scored with a left footed shot in the 16th minute of the game. With this goal Honda became the first Japanese player to score in two World Cups, and also claimed sole possession of being the top Japanese scorer in FIFA World Cup history with three total goals. Japan went on to lose 2–1 to the African team.[71]

2015 AFC Asian Cup

edit

Honda was included in Javier Aguirre's 23-man squad for 2015 AFC Asian Cup. Honda started Japan's opener match against Palestine and scored a penalty kick in their 4–0 win. In next match against Iraq, Honda again netted a penalty which Japan won the match 1–0 and the first goal in 2–0 win of Jordan.

Honda participated in Japan's quarter final match against the United Arab Emirates. After the match ended 1–1 after extra time Honda, who was Japan's first kicker in the penalty shootout, missed his kick, shooting above the crossbar, as Japan ended up losing the shootout 5–4.

2018 FIFA World Cup

edit

On 24 June 2018, Honda scored a goal against Senegal in the second match of the group stages of Group H. With this goal he became the top scoring Asian player in World Cup history and the only player to register a goal and an assist in each of the last three tournaments.[72] After Japan's exit in the Round of 16, Honda announced his plan to retire from the international stage.[73]

Managerial career

edit

Cambodia

edit
 
Honda managing Cambodia against Iran in 2019

In August 2018, whilst still a player, Honda was named general manager of Cambodia. Under this arrangement, Honda held weekly conferences with the Cambodia coaching staff, and was on the touchline when Cambodia's matches were during international breaks, with his assistant Felix Dalmas stepping in whenever Honda was unavailable.[74][75][76] On 10 September 2018, Honda lost his opening game as manager of Cambodia 3–1 against Malaysia.[77]

Cambodia finished last in its 2022 FIFA world cup qualifying group and suffered two extraordinary defeats to Iran, first 14–0 in late 2019 and then 10–0 in June 2021.[78][79]

In January 2023, the Football Federation of Cambodia announced that the 2022 AFF Championship would be Honda's last tournament with the national team. Despite failing to advance past the group stage, Honda helped the team to their best achievement in the tournament with 2 wins, one of which was against the Philippines. Honda would fulfill his final duties as general manager for the Cambodia U-23 team during the 2023 SEA Games, which Cambodia hosted. However, Honda did not manage to guide his team out of the group stage, finishing third in their group behind Indonesia and Myanmar.

Personal life

edit

Coming from a sporting family, Keisuke Honda's older brother was also a footballer. Honda's great-uncle Daisaburo was a canoeist who represented Japan in C-2 1000 metres event at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. Keisuke Honda's cousin is Tamon Honda, a professional wrestler and former Olympic wrestler, who participated in three Olympic Games in freestyle wrestling in 100 kg at the 1984, 1988 Games, and in 130 kg at the 1992 showpiece, and is also a former tag team champion, winning the All Asia Tag Team Championship and GHC Tag Team Championship.[80]

He married Misako, whom he knew since high school. Honda has three children.[81]

Career statistics

edit

Club

edit
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition[82][83]
Club Season League Cup[a] Continental[b] Other[c] Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
Nagoya Grampus 2004 J1 League 0 0 0 0 1 0 1 0
2005 J1 League 31 2 2 0 2 0 35 2
2006 J1 League 29 6 1 0 4 2 34 8
2007 J1 League 30 3 2 0 3 0 35 3
Total 90 11 5 0 10 2 105 13
VVV-Venlo 2007–08 Eredivisie 14 2 3 0 17 2
2008–09 Eerste Divisie 36 16 1 0 37 16
2009–10 Eredivisie 18 6 2 2 20 8
Total 68 24 3 2 3 0 74 26
CSKA Moscow 2010 Russian Premier League 28 4 5 0 12 1 1 0 46 5
2011–12 Russian Premier League 25 8 1 0 1 0 1 0 28 8
2012–13 Russian Premier League 23 7 3 1 2 1 28 9
2013–14 Russian Premier League 18 1 0 0 6 2 1 2 25 5
Total 94 20 9 1 21 4 3 2 127 27
Milan 2013–14 Serie A 14 1 2 1 16 2
2014–15 Serie A 29 6 1 0 30 6
2015–16 Serie A 30 1 7 1 37 2
2016–17 Serie A 8 1 1 0 9 1
Total 81 9 11 2 92 11
Pachuca 2017–18 Liga MX 29 10 5 3 2 0 36 13
Melbourne Victory 2018–19 A-League 18 7 0 0 4 1 22 8
Vitesse 2019–20 Eredivisie 4 0 0 0 0 0 4 0
Botafogo 2020 Série A 18 2 5 0 4 1 27 3
Neftçi 2020–21 Azerbaijan Premier League 7 2 0 0 0 0 7 2
Sūduva 2021 A Lyga 6 1 0 0 0 0 6 1
Paro 2024 Bhutan Premier League 6 1 0 0 1 0 7 1
Career total 421 87 38 8 26 5 22 5 505 106

International

edit
Appearances and goals by national team and year
National team Year Apps Goals
Japan 2008 1 0
2009 10 3
2010 12 3
2011 8 2
2012 9 4
2013 12 8
2014 13 4
2015 14 10
2016 7 2
2017 5 0
2018 7 1
Total 98 37
Scores and results list Japan's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Honda goal.
List of international goals scored by Keisuke Honda
No. Date Venue Opponent Score Result Competition
1 27 May 2009 Nagai Stadium, Osaka, Japan   Chile 4–0 4–0 Friendly
2 10 October 2009 Nissan Stadium, Yokohama, Japan   Scotland 2–0 2–0 Friendly
3 14 October 2009 Miyagi Stadium, Rifu, Japan   Togo 5–0 5–0 Friendly
4 3 March 2010 Toyota Stadium, Toyota, Japan   Bahrain 2–0 2–0 2011 AFC Asian Cup qualification
5 14 June 2010 Free State Stadium, Bloemfontein, South Africa   Cameroon 1–0 1–0 2010 FIFA World Cup
6 24 June 2010 Royal Bafokeng Stadium, Rustenburg, South Africa   Denmark 1–0 3–1 2010 FIFA World Cup
7 13 January 2011 Qatar SC Stadium, Doha, Qatar   Syria 2–1 2–1 2011 AFC Asian Cup
8 10 August 2011 Sapporo Dome, Sapporo, Japan   South Korea 2–0 3–0 Friendly
9 3 June 2012 Saitama Stadium 2002, Saitama, Japan   Oman 1–0 3–0 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification
10 8 June 2012 Saitama Stadium 2002, Saitama, Japan   Jordan 2–0 6–0 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification
11 3–0
12 5–0
13 6 February 2013 Home's Stadium Kobe, Kobe, Japan   Latvia 2–0 3–0 Friendly
14 4 June 2013 Saitama Stadium 2002, Saitama, Japan   Australia 1–1 1–1 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification
15 19 June 2013 Arena Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil   Italy 1–0 3–4 2013 FIFA Confederations Cup
16 14 August 2013 Miyagi Stadium, Rifu, Japan   Uruguay 2–4 2–4 Friendly
17 6 September 2013 Nagai Stadium, Osaka, Japan   Guatemala 1–0 3–0 Friendly
18 10 September 2013 International Stadium Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan   Ghana 3–1 3–1 Friendly
19 16 November 2013 Cristal Arena, Genk, Belgium   Netherlands 2–2 2–2 Friendly
20 19 November 2013 King Baudouin Stadium, Brussels, Belgium   Belgium 2–1 3–2 Friendly
21 7 June 2014 Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, United States   Zambia 1–2 4–3 Friendly
22 3–2
23 14 June 2014 Arena Pernambuco, Recife, Brazil   Ivory Coast 1–0 1–2 2014 FIFA World Cup
24 14 November 2014 Toyota Stadium, Toyota, Japan   Honduras 2–0 6–0 Friendly
25 12 January 2015 Newcastle Stadium, Newcastle, Australia   Palestine 3–0 4–0 2015 AFC Asian Cup
26 16 January 2015 Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, Australia   Iraq 1–0 1–0 2015 AFC Asian Cup
27 20 January 2015 Melbourne Rectangular Stadium, Melbourne, Australia   Jordan 1–0 2–0 2015 AFC Asian Cup
28 27 March 2015 Ōita Bank Dome, Ōita, Japan   Tunisia 2–0 2–0 Friendly
29 11 June 2015 Nissan Stadium, Yokohama, Japan   Iraq 1–0 4–0 Friendly
30 3 September 2015 Saitama Stadium 2002, Saitama, Japan   Cambodia 1–0 3–0 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification
31 8 September 2015 Azadi Stadium, Tehran, Iran   Afghanistan 6–0 6–0 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification
32 8 October 2015 Seeb Stadium, Seeb, Oman   Syria 1–0 3–0 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification
33 12 November 2015 National Stadium, Singapore   Singapore 2–0 3–0 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification
34 17 November 2015 Olympic Stadium, Phnom Penh, Cambodia   Cambodia 2–0 2–0 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification
35 29 March 2016 Saitama Stadium 2002, Saitama, Japan   Syria 3–0 5–0 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification
36 1 September 2016 Saitama Stadium 2002, Saitama, Japan   United Arab Emirates 1–0 1–2 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification
37 24 June 2018 Central Stadium, Yekaterinburg, Russia   Senegal 2–2 2–2 2018 FIFA World Cup

Managerial

edit
As of match played 10 May 2023
Managerial record by team and tenure
Team From To Record Ref.
P W D L Win %
Cambodia 12 August 2018 4 January 2023 34 9 4 21 026.5
Cambodia U22 17 March 2022 10 May 2023 11 3 2 6 027.3
Total 45 12 6 27 026.7

Honours

edit

VVV-Venlo

CSKA Moscow

Milan

Neftçi PFK

Paro FC

Japan

Individual

 
Honda's footprint on display at the main lobby of J-Village

References

edit
  1. ^ a b c "FIFA Club World Cup UAE 2017: List of Players: CF Pachuca" (PDF). FIFA. 29 November 2017. p. 3. Archived from the original (PDF) on 1 December 2017.
  2. ^ Mabley, Ben (June 2014). "World Cup 2014: Japan tactics and key questions – the expert's view". The Guardian. Archived from the original on 28 June 2018. Retrieved 26 November 2018.
  3. ^ Windon, Jacob (6 August 2018). "How will Melbourne Victory deploy their new Japanese superstar?". A-League. Archived from the original on 26 November 2018. Retrieved 26 November 2018.
  4. ^ "Keisuke Honda Is Happy With Life at CSKA Moscow But Not His Position in the Line-Up". Goal.com. 28 July 2010. Archived from the original on 2 November 2013. Retrieved 15 July 2013.
  5. ^ "Honda plans to open soccer school in United States". The Yomiuri Shimbun. Archived from the original on 28 January 2016. Retrieved 3 February 2016.
  6. ^ "Keisuke Honda: VVV's Very Own Midfield Emperor". Bleacher Report. 4 October 2008. Archived from the original on 24 October 2013. Retrieved 15 July 2013.
  7. ^ "Japan Defender Maya Yoshida Leaves Nagoya Grampus For VVV Venlo". Goal.com. 29 December 2009. Archived from the original on 4 February 2010. Retrieved 15 July 2013.
  8. ^ "Honda helps Venlo win promotion back to top flight in Netherlands". The Japan Times. 26 April 2009. Archived from the original on 17 October 2013. Retrieved 15 July 2013.
  9. ^ a b "'Emperor Keisuke' joins the Army Men". UEFA. 1 January 2010. Archived from the original on 18 February 2010. Retrieved 8 July 2010.
  10. ^ Venlo chief eyes new Japanese talent Archived 12 November 2016 at the Wayback Machine, The Japan Times, 3 April 2014
  11. ^ VI.nl (30 December 2009). "CSKA en VVV bereiken akkoord over Honda" (in Dutch). Archived from the original on 1 January 2010. Retrieved 30 December 2009.
  12. ^ Роман Бабаев: «У Думбия были более привлекательные в финансовом отношении варианты, чем ЦСКА» Archived 24 September 2015 at the Wayback Machine (Russian)
  13. ^ "Gonzalez wonder goal earns CSKA draw against Sevilla". Bangkok Post. 25 February 2010. Retrieved 25 February 2010.
  14. ^ "CSKA Moskva seal Russian Cup success". UEFA. 22 May 2011. Archived from the original on 8 July 2013. Retrieved 21 July 2013.
  15. ^ "Krylya Sovetov 0-3 CSKA Moskva". Soccerway. 25 May 2011. Archived from the original on 24 June 2018. Retrieved 21 July 2013.
  16. ^ "CSKA Moskva 2-0 Alaniya". Soccerway. 16 September 2012. Archived from the original on 24 June 2018. Retrieved 21 July 2013.
  17. ^ "Honda Stars as CSKA Beat Zenit 3-0 for Russian Super Cup". RIA Novosti. 13 July 2013. Archived from the original on 17 October 2013. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  18. ^ "Keisuke Honda left PFC CSKA". PFC CSKA Moskva. 11 December 2013. Archived from the original on 15 December 2013. Retrieved 13 December 2013.
  19. ^ "Official: Allegri criticises Balotelli, announces deals for Rami, Honda". Soccerway. 27 October 2013. Archived from the original on 30 October 2013. Retrieved 28 October 2013.
  20. ^ "Allegri: 'Balotelli had a bad game'". Football Italia. 27 October 2013. Archived from the original on 6 October 2014. Retrieved 28 October 2013.
  21. ^ "Breaking News: ADRIANO GALLIANI: "Honda will be a Milan player" - AC Milan". A.C. Milan. 11 December 2013. Archived from the original on 15 December 2013. Retrieved 13 December 2013.
  22. ^ "HISTÓRICAMENTE MILAN". A.C. Milan. 14 December 2013. Archived from the original on 15 December 2013. Retrieved 14 December 2013.
  23. ^ "Line-ups: Milan-Spezia". Calcio Italia. 15 January 2014. Archived from the original on 16 January 2014. Retrieved 16 January 2014.
  24. ^ "Honda opens Milan account". The Japan Times. 16 January 2014. Archived from the original on 9 April 2014. Retrieved 4 September 2020.
  25. ^ McCauley, Kevin (7 April 2014). "Honda grabs first goal in Milan win". Archived from the original on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 20 October 2016.
  26. ^ "Keisuke Honda angry over dismal AC Milan season - Tribal Football". Archived from the original on 12 July 2015. Retrieved 20 October 2016.
  27. ^ "AC Milan 3-1 Lazio". ESPN. 31 August 2014. Archived from the original on 6 October 2014. Retrieved 6 October 2014.
  28. ^ "Parma 4-5 Milan". BBC Sport. 14 September 2014. Archived from the original on 12 November 2020. Retrieved 4 September 2020.
  29. ^ "Jeremy Menez stars as AC Milan edge nine-goal thriller with Parma". ESPNFC. 14 September 2014. Archived from the original on 15 September 2014. Retrieved 14 September 2014.
  30. ^ "Fernando Torres scored his first Serie A goal as AC Milan fought back from two goals down to draw at Empoli". BBC Sport. 22 September 2014. Archived from the original on 8 October 2014. Retrieved 6 October 2014.
  31. ^ Fryer, Rupert (5 October 2014). "Honda: Menez is no Kaka on the free kick front". Goal.com. Archived from the original on 6 October 2014. Retrieved 6 October 2014.
  32. ^ "This is Keisuke Honda". Melbourne Victory. 6 August 2018. Archived from the original on 6 August 2018. Retrieved 6 August 2018.
  33. ^ Thomas, Josh (20 October 2018). "Melbourne City spoil Keisuke Honda's Melbourne Victory debut". Goal.com. Archived from the original on 21 October 2018. Retrieved 21 October 2018.
  34. ^ "A-League news: Keisuke Honda confirms Melbourne Victory exit, Fox Sports interview". Fox Sports. 3 May 2019. Archived from the original on 17 March 2021. Retrieved 3 May 2019.
  35. ^ "Keisuke Honda asks Manchester United for an offer over Twitter". Sky Sports. 28 September 2019. Archived from the original on 29 September 2019. Retrieved 30 September 2019.
  36. ^ "HONDA TEKENT CONTRACT BIJ VITESSE (VIDEO)" (in Dutch). Vitesse. 6 November 2019. Archived from the original on 8 November 2019. Retrieved 6 November 2019.
  37. ^ "WEGEN HONDA EN VITESSE SCHEIDEN". vitesse.nl (in Dutch). SBV Vitesse. 23 December 2019. Archived from the original on 23 December 2019. Retrieved 23 December 2019.
  38. ^ "Fim da novela: Botafogo contrata Honda" [End of drama: Botafogo signs Honda]. globoesporte.globo.com (in Portuguese). Globo Esporte. 31 January 2020. Archived from the original on 1 February 2020. Retrieved 31 January 2020.
  39. ^ "Honda estreia com gol, mas Botafogo só empata com o Bangu" [Honda debuts with goal, but Botafogo only draws against Bangu]. metropoles.com (in Portuguese). Metrópoles. 15 March 2020. Archived from the original on 6 August 2020. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
  40. ^ "Com contrato até o fim do Brasileirão, Honda pede para deixar o Botafogo" [With a contract running until the end of the season, Honda asks to leave Botafogo]. globoesporte.globo.com (in Portuguese). Globo Esporte. 30 December 2020. Archived from the original on 5 February 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
  41. ^ "Honda se despede do Botafogo: "Também me decepcionei, sinto muito"" [Honda bids farewell to Botafogo: "I'm also disappointed, I'm sorry"]. globoesporte.globo.com (in Portuguese). Globo Esporte. 30 December 2020. Archived from the original on 13 January 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
  42. ^ "Keisuke Honda set to join Portimonense". japantimes.co.jp (in Portuguese). The Japan Times. 5 February 2021. Archived from the original on 18 February 2021. Retrieved 5 February 2021.
  43. ^ "OFICIAL: Portimonense contrata Honda, histórico do futebol japonês" [OFFICIAL: Portimonense signs Honda, Japanese football legend]. maisfutebol.iol.pt (in Portuguese). Mais Futebol. 6 February 2021. Archived from the original on 6 February 2021. Retrieved 6 February 2021.
  44. ^ "Honda não pode ser inscrito na Liga e deixa Portimonense" [Honda can't be registered in the league and leaves Portimonense]. ojogo.pt (in Portuguese). O Jogo. 11 February 2021. Archived from the original on 26 February 2021. Retrieved 12 February 2021.
  45. ^ "Honda reuniu-se com a SAD e sai" [Honda meets with the SAD and leaves]. abola.pt (in Portuguese). A Bola. 11 February 2021. Archived from the original on 12 February 2021. Retrieved 12 February 2021.
  46. ^ "Keysuke Honda rəsmən "Neftçi"də". Archived from the original on 24 March 2021. Retrieved 15 March 2021.
  47. ^ "Soccer: Keisuke Honda wins Azerbaijan Premier League title with Neftchi Baku". mainichi.jp. 20 May 2021. Archived from the original on 20 May 2021.
  48. ^ "Keysuke Hondaya təşəkkür edirik". neftchi.az/ (in Azerbaijani). Neftçi PFK. 16 June 2021. Archived from the original on 16 June 2021. Retrieved 16 June 2021.
  49. ^ ""Sūduvoje" žais K. Honda". fksuduva.lt/ (in Lithuanian). FK Sūduva. 14 September 2021. Archived from the original on 14 September 2021. Retrieved 15 September 2021.
  50. ^ "本田圭佑が1試合限定の異例の契約で選手としてピッチに戻る 10カ国目となるブータンの強豪(日刊スポーツ)" [Keisuke Honda returns to the pitch as a player on an unusual one-game contract in Bhutan, his 10th country]. Yahoo!ニュース (in Japanese). 29 July 2024. Retrieved 29 July 2024.
  51. ^ Goal.com (14 July 2008). "Japan Name Olympic Squad". Archived from the original on 31 July 2008. Retrieved 17 July 2008.
  52. ^ "Japan 1-0 Cameroon". BBC Sport. 14 June 2010. Archived from the original on 2 July 2013. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  53. ^ "Honda creates history for Japan". FIFA. 14 June 2010. Archived from the original on 9 May 2012. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  54. ^ "Denmark 1 Japan 3: match report". The Telegraph. 24 June 2010. Archived from the original on 25 October 2010. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  55. ^ "Denmark 1-3 Japan". BBC Sport. 24 June 2010. Archived from the original on 20 June 2018. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  56. ^ Sheringham, Sam (24 June 2010). "Denmark 1–3 Japan". BBC Sport. Archived from the original on 20 June 2018. Retrieved 24 June 2010.
  57. ^ Wilson, Jonathan (11 July 2010). "The Question: What have been the tactical lessons of World Cup 2010?". The Guardian. Archived from the original on 5 November 2013. Retrieved 12 July 2010.
  58. ^ "Japan deservedly booked a place in the final after a dramatic win on penalties over South Korea..." Goal.com. 25 January 2011. Archived from the original on 26 February 2014. Retrieved 15 July 2013.
  59. ^ "Honda, Inui lead Asian award shortlist". FIFA. 15 September 2011. Archived from the original on 9 October 2011. Retrieved 15 July 2013.
  60. ^ "JAPAN ACE HONDA LINKS UP WITH CSKA AFTER INJURY". Tribal Football. 18 April 2013. Archived from the original on 13 May 2013. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  61. ^ "Japan 3-0 Oman: Honda, Maeda & Okazaki score as hosts dominate opener". Goal.com. 3 June 2012. Archived from the original on 25 February 2014. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  62. ^ "Japan 6-0 Jordan: Honda hat-trick propels Samurai Blue to second straight qualifying win". Goal.com. 8 June 2012. Archived from the original on 25 February 2014. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  63. ^ "Socceroos reduced to 10 men but hold on for brave 1-1 draw against Japan at Suncorp Stadium". Fox Sports. 12 June 2012. Archived from the original on 21 July 2013. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  64. ^ "Jordan 2-1 Japan". Goal.com. 26 March 2013. Archived from the original on 31 March 2013. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  65. ^ "Jordan checks Japan's World Cup progress with 2-1 win". Arab News. 27 March 2013. Archived from the original on 31 March 2013. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  66. ^ "Australia concede late equaliser to Japan in World Cup qualifier". The Guardian. 4 June 2013. Archived from the original on 9 November 2013. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  67. ^ "Japan secure World Cup 2014 spot". ESPN. 4 June 2013. Archived from the original on 24 December 2013. Retrieved 13 July 2013.
  68. ^ "Concerns of Brazil protesters sadden Japan team". Fox Sports. 21 June 2013. Archived from the original on 12 December 2021. Retrieved 15 July 2013.
  69. ^ Bevan, Chris (15 June 2013). "Brazil 3-0 Japan". BBC Sport. Archived from the original on 25 September 2020. Retrieved 4 September 2020.
  70. ^ Magowan, Alistair (20 June 2013). "Italy 4-3 Japan". BBC Sport. Archived from the original on 16 May 2021. Retrieved 4 September 2020.
  71. ^ "Ivory Coast stage World Cup fight back to see off Japan". The Guardian. 15 June 2014. Archived from the original on 8 October 2014. Retrieved 17 June 2014.
  72. ^ "Colombia sends Poland home, after late Japan strike stalls Senegal surge". CNN. Archived from the original on 12 December 2021. Retrieved 24 June 2018.
  73. ^ "Japan's Honda & Hasebe announce retirement". goal.com. Goal. 4 July 2018. Archived from the original on 6 April 2020. Retrieved 6 April 2020.
  74. ^ "Prized recruit Keisuke Honda will coach Cambodia's national team while at Melbourne Victory". Herald Sun. 12 August 2018. Archived from the original on 11 April 2020. Retrieved 5 December 2018.
  75. ^ "Coach Cheng Hoe urges team to start off Suzuki Cup challenge on the right foot". Toronto Star. 8 November 2018. Archived from the original on 3 August 2020. Retrieved 6 April 2020.
  76. ^ "Five things to know about Keisuke Honda's Cambodian love affair". foxsportsasia.com. FOX Networks Group. 13 August 2018. Archived from the original on 28 March 2019. Retrieved 6 April 2020.
  77. ^ "Honda's debut as general manager of Cambodia ends in loss". The Japan Times. 11 September 2018. Archived from the original on 7 August 2020. Retrieved 12 November 2018.
  78. ^ "Iran defeats Cambodia 10-0 in FIFA World Cup Qualification - Mehr News Agency". En.mehrnews.com. 11 June 2021. Archived from the original on 22 October 2021. Retrieved 12 December 2021.
  79. ^ "Iran beat Cambodia 14-0 in historic match attended by women | Football". Al Jazeera. 10 October 2019. Archived from the original on 22 October 2021. Retrieved 12 December 2021.
  80. ^ asahi.com 一人立つ、夢への舞台 サッカー・本田圭佑さん – 家族物語 - Archived 5 December 2008 at the Wayback Machine retrieved on 13 February 2009
  81. ^ Edmund, Sam. "Victory star Keisuke Honda hints he won't be in town for long but he does like Melbourne". Herald Sun. News Corp. Archived from the original on 12 December 2021. Retrieved 7 December 2018.
  82. ^ Keisuke Honda at Soccerway
  83. ^ "Keisuke Honda " Club matches". World Football. Archived from the original on 21 June 2018. Retrieved 21 June 2018.
  84. ^ "AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2011 Technical Report". The-AFC.com. AFC. Archived from the original on 18 August 2018. Retrieved 10 December 2019.
  85. ^ "Fans' Best XI Announced!". The-AFC.com. AFC. 16 November 2018. Archived from the original on 19 November 2018. Retrieved 10 December 2019.
  86. ^ "IFFHS MAN TEAM - AFC - OF THE DECADE 2011-2020". IFFHS. 30 January 2021. Archived from the original on 3 July 2021. Retrieved 12 June 2021.
  87. ^ a b "The best Asian team at the FIFA World Cup announced!". Asian Football Confederation. 7 July 2020. Archived from the original on 16 January 2021. Retrieved 19 May 2021.
  88. ^ "#AsianCup2023 five-month countdown: Fan-voted all-time AFC Asian Cup Dream XI revealed". Asian Football Confederation. 12 August 2023. Retrieved 13 August 2023.
edit