Profile of Koki Ogawa, Japanese Striker and Teammate of Calvin Verdonk at NEC Nijmegen

Kapanlagi.com - The Indonesian National Team is ready to face two important matches that will determine their fate in Group C of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. The first match will be held on Friday, November 15, 2024, against the strong team Japan at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK), Jakarta. Shortly after that, on November 19, Indonesia will compete against Saudi Arabia.

One name that stands out from the Japanese squad is Koki Ogawa. The 27-year-old striker is a teammate of Calvin Verdonk, a defender of the Indonesian National Team who currently plays for NEC Nijmegen in the Eredivisie League of the Netherlands. The meeting between Ogawa and Verdonk will certainly be an interesting moment, where they will no longer fight on the same team, but will face each other on the field.

Here is an interesting profile of Koki Ogawa as reported by Kapanlagi.com from various sources, Thursday (14/11).

1. Koki Ogawa in the Japan Squad Selected by Hajime Moriyasu

Japan's coach, Hajime Moriyasu, has selected 27 players to strengthen his team, and among them, Koki Ogawa stands out as a star ready to shine in the attacking line. With valuable experience in the Dutch league, Ogawa is expected to make a significant impact for his team.

This reliable forward is known for his aggressive play and consistency, making him a dependable figure both at the club level and for the national team. Now, Ogawa is ready to showcase his abilities in an exciting match against Indonesia, bringing high hopes for Japanese fans.

2. Ogawa's Career Start in Japan: From Toko Gakuen to Jubilo Iwata

Koki Ogawa's illustrious career began in Japan when he took his first steps at Toko Gakuen HS school club. His outstanding talent quickly caught the attention of professional clubs, and in 2016, he officially joined Jubilo Iwata in the J1 League.

His debut in the J.League Cup on April 6, 2016, against Ventforet Kofu marked a historic moment in his football journey. In 2019, Ogawa had a loan spell at Mito HollyHock in the J2 League, where he further honed his skills as a forward, successfully building a reputation as a deadly predator in front of goal.

3. Ogawa's Achievements at Yokohama FC: Top Scorer and MVP of the J2 League

In 2022, Ogawa caught attention when he joined Yokohama FC on loan, where he performed fiercely by scoring 26 goals in a single season, making him the league's top scorer.

Not only that, his stunning performance also earned him the title of league's best player and a spot in the J2 League Best XI, affirming his position as one of the most promising strikers from Japan.

His success at Yokohama FC elevated his name and attracted the attention of several clubs, until he finally decided to continue his career at NEC Nijmegen in the Netherlands. Ogawa's remarkable journey further solidifies his reputation as a player capable of shining on the stage of high competition.

4. Ogawa's International Career: From U-20 Team to Japan Senior Team

Koki Ogawa, a shining young star, first donned the Japan National Team jersey in 2017 during the U-20 World Cup, where he immediately drew attention with his first goal against South Africa. Although an injury forced his journey to end early, his contribution is still remembered as an important part of the team's journey.

Two years later, Ogawa stepped onto the senior stage at the East Asia Cup, where his debut became a historic moment with a spectacular hat-trick against Hong Kong. Since then, Ogawa has become a mainstay in Japan's front line, ready to carve out even more brilliant achievements on the international stage.

(kpl/rmt)