12 Facts About Akira Kaji

Akira Kaji is a Japanese former professional footballer who played as a defender.

Akira Kaji last played for Japan national team until 2008.

Akira Kaji made his first league appearance on 25 July 1998 against Avispa Fukuoka.

Akira Kaji was transferred to Gamba Osaka at the beginning of the 2006 season and scored in the beginning league match against Urawa Reds.

Akira Kaji was a member of the Japan U20 national team for the 1999 World Youth Championship finals where the team finished runners-up.

Akira Kaji gained his first cap for Japan national team when national coach Zico played him on 8 October 2003 in a friendly against Tunisia.

Akira Kaji was rated highly by Zico who made him the first-choice right full-back.

Akira Kaji was a member of the Japan team which won the 2004 AFC Asian Cup in China.

Akira Kaji made the final squad for the 2006 FIFA World Cup finals.

Akira Kaji missed Japan's first game in the tournament against Australia with Yuichi Komano filling in for his place, but he returned to the team and played in the rest of the competition.

Akira Kaji was a member of the Japan team for the 2007 AFC Asian Cup and played all the Japan games in the tournament.

Akira Kaji played 64 games and scored 2 goals for Japan until 2008.