Kunishige Kamamoto, widely regarded as the greatest striker in Japanese soccer history, died at the age of 81 due to pneumonia at a hospital in Osaka Prefecture on August 10, 2025. Kamamoto was the all-time leading scorer for the Japan national team with 75 goals, a record that still stands. He played a pivotal role in Japan's men's soccer team winning the bronze medal at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, where he was the tournament's top scorer. Kamamoto also served as the vice chairman of the Japan Football Association and was the inaugural manager of Gamba Osaka. His legacy is celebrated by prominent figures in Japanese football, including former players and club officials. The J1 League club Gamba Osaka held a moment of silence before a match in his honor. Former national team player Keisuke Honda acknowledged Kamamoto's profound influence on his early football career. Kamamoto's playing style was noted for his versatility in scoring with both feet and his head, exemplified by his performance in the 1968 Olympic bronze medal match. His death marks the loss of a legendary figure in Japanese football history.