Farewell Match Locked In! Shinji Okazaki to Bid Adieu at Shimizu S-Pulse's Home Stadium on January 16, 2027

Shimizu S-Pulse have officially announced that the retirement farewell match of former Japan international and club legend Shinji Okazaki will be held at the club's home stadium on January 16, 2027. In a statement, Okazaki expressed gratitude for his six years playing for Shimizu S-Pulse in Japan, noting that the club is the only Japanese team he has represented. He said he is deeply happy and honored that the club is organizing a farewell match for him, and hopes the game will serve as a bridge to the club's next chapter. He expressed his wish for former teammates to come together, and hopes to create a lively atmosphere in the style of a "big team reunion." He also hopes discussions about Shimizu S-Pulse's future can take place, including chasing the J.League title, competing in the AFC Champions League, and nurturing young talent, and he looks forward to seeing everyone again.