Keito Nakamura ends Reims’ World Cup scoring wait dating back to Just Fontaine | OneFootball

Keito Nakamura became the first Reims player to score at a World Cup since Just Fontaine after Japan drew 2-2 with the Netherlands in their opener.

The 26-cap forward, who has 11 international goals, struck the equaliser on Sunday night to secure a point for Hajime Moriyasu’s side.

The previous Rémois to score on this stage was Fontaine at the 1958 World Cup in Sweden, won by Brazil. He set a tournament record with 13 goals, including four against West Germany as France won the third-place play-off 6-3.

Nakamura’s goal ends a 68-year wait for the Champagne club to see one of their players score at a World Cup. For Japan, he has been deployed as a left wing-back by Moriyasu.

Since arriving in 2023, Nakamura has played 97 matches for Reims, scoring 30 and providing 7 assists.

Source: L'Équipe