I League

5 players from Japan who have made an impact in Indian Football

4. Taisuke Matsugae

Taisuke who played for Blaublitz Akita in the J3 League for the Akita based side played in 150 matches scoring 20 goals.On January 17, 2013 Shillong Lajong announced the signing of the Japanese midfielder.

Known for his penetrating passes in the final third, organizing the shape of the team off the ball and making the hard tackles in the center, Taisuke was a key figure in the Lajong’s midfield.

In the tough away game against Kolkata and Goa side, Taisuke’s leadership and tactical awareness in the center was invaluable for Lajong’s success.

Taisuke played 31 games for Shillong Lajong during the 2013-14 season scoring 4 goals and was instrumental in Lajong’s midfield role.

Following season (2014-15), Taisuke moved to Mumbai FC scoring 3 goals from 26 appearances where his goal against Pune FC from halfway line was one of the best goals of the I-League season.