How a Japanese winger turned the tide in two World Cup matches
In short: Ritsu Dōan is known for his ability to change game momentum. During the 2022 FIFA World Cup, he entered matches as a substitute while his team trailed, scoring crucial equalizers in both instances to secure historic victories for Japan.
Dōan's rise through the Japanese youth system was marked by early success. While playing for the Gamba Osaka junior youth team, he helped the squad secure an unmatched triple championship at the U-15 level in 2012. His technical ability and physical presence led many to compare him to fellow Gamba product Akihiro Ienaga.
His career path took him through several major leagues. After debuting for Gamba Osaka in the 2015 AFC Champions League, he moved to the Dutch Eredivisie with FC Groningen in 2017. During his time in the Netherlands, he matched the teenage goal tally of Arjen Robben by scoring eight goals against Roda in the 2017–18 season.
Dōan has since become a significant force in the German Bundesliga. After stints with Arminia Bielefeld and SC Freiburg—where he became the club's top scorer for the 2024–25 season with 10 goals—he joined Eintracht Frankfurt in August 2025. His impact on the international stage remains a highlight, specifically his role in Japan's 2022 World Cup campaign.
In that tournament, Dōan's impact was nearly identical in two group stage matches. Against Germany on 23 November 2022, he entered the pitch while trailing 1–0 and scored the equalizer. He repeated this feat against Spain on 1 December 2022, scoring just two minutes after entering the game to help Japan secure a 2–1 win.
Opens the Intellect+ feed with this card first. Swipe up for the next one.
Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Ritsu Dōan
To cite this card, link to https://intellectplus.co.uk/app/history-ritsu-d-an.
How we source, check and correct cards: Editorial standards.
General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.
Intellect Plus is a visual educational discovery platform for exploring fascinating facts and ideas. Brain Food, Not Brain Rot. What is Intellect Plus?
Related
More in Born on this day · More in History · Latest · A–Z · All topics
