Former Japan World Cup defender dies after collapse

Friday 05 August 2011 00:00 BST

Naoki Matsuda celebrates victory during the 2002 World Cup (Getty)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Former Japan defender Naoki Matsuda died in hospital yesterday, two days after collapsing during training from a suspected heart attack. He was 34.

Matsuda, who won 40 caps and played at the 2002 World Cup, was put on an artificial respirator after arriving at hospital unconscious on Tuesday.

"It's terrible to see someone die at such a young age," said former Japan coach Philippe Troussier, who gave Matsuda his international debut.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Thank you for registering

Former Japan World Cup defender dies after collapse

Join our commenting forum

Thank you for registering