Japan’s key winger Kaoru Mitoma, often dubbed the nation’s Son Heung-min, suffered a hamstring injury during Brighton’s dominant 3-0 Premier League victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Brighton’s Convincing Win and Mitoma’s Exit
Brighton secured a comfortable 3-0 home win against Wolverhampton at the Amex Stadium on November 9 (KST) in the 2025-2026 English Premier League season. The Seagulls sit seventh in the standings with 14 wins, 11 draws, and 11 losses, accumulating 53 points.
The match took a turn in the second half at the 61-minute mark, with Brighton leading 2-0. Mitoma sprinted to receive the ball for a potential shot when he suddenly clutched his hamstring and collapsed. Unable to continue, he was substituted by Joel Veltman and limped off with a grim expression.
Devastating Timing for Japan’s World Cup Hopes
The injury strikes just days before Japan’s national team announces its squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on November 15. Japan faces a tough Group F alongside the Netherlands, Tunisia, and Sweden in the finals.
Mitoma acknowledged the setback, stating, “I have to take responsibility for the results, but it doesn’t look good. The hamstring injury is a fact, but I need to hold myself accountable.” He admitted his condition has not been ideal, despite increased efforts, as the World Cup main squad selection looms about a month away.
Head coach Hajime Moriyasu had high expectations for Mitoma as Japan’s top scorer. Sources confirm the injury occurred right before the top squad reveal on November 5, amplifying the blow.
Mitoma’s Recent Form and EPL Accolades
Mitoma remains a cornerstone for Japan, boasting three Premier League ‘Goal of the Month’ awards—the most alongside Bruno Fernandes of Manchester United and Bruno Fernandes.
His latest came on January 19 in a 2-2 draw away at Tottenham Hotspur. In first-half stoppage time, Pascal Gross delivered a pinpoint cross, and Mitoma volleyed home a stunning equalizer from outside the box. This marked his third such honor, following wins in September 2023 and February 2025.
Since then, Mitoma has racked up assists, sharing the record for most in the league. However, this injury adds to Japan’s woes, as super-sub Takumi Minamino of AS Monaco also faces a similar hamstring issue.
